Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of garlic Parmesan with hearty beef and rigatoni pasta, look no further! This Garlic Parmesan Beef with Rigatoni recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The creamy sauce adds a luscious texture that perfectly complements the tender beef and al dente pasta.Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb ground beef (or beef stew meat for a heartier version) 2 cups rigatoni pasta 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup heavy cream 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 tablespoon butter Salt and pepper to taste 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Prep Time
10 minutesCook Time
20 minutesTotal Time
30 minutesYield
Serves 4-6 people Enjoy your meal!Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Rigatoni:
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. – Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. – Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water to use later if necessary.Cook the Beef:
– While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef (or beef stew meat). – Break up the beef as it cooks, stirring occasionally until it is browned and fully cooked. – Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
– In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. – Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. – Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. – Let the cream simmer for a few minutes until it begins to thicken. – Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce. – If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.Combine Beef, Pasta, and Sauce:
– Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce. – Stir gently to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce and beef mixture. – Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.Serve and Garnish:
– Serve the Garlic Parmesan Beef with Rigatoni in individual bowls or on a large platter. – Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a touch of freshness.Notes
Ingredient Adjustments:
– You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. – For a vegetarian option, consider using mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives.Storage:
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. – Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.Serving Suggestions:
– This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
To cook rigatoni, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water for later use.Cooking Ground Beef
For the ground beef, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and break it up as it cooks, stirring occasionally until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.Making Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then pour in heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer. Allow it to thicken before stirring in grated Parmesan cheese, adjusting with reserved pasta water if necessary.Combining Ingredients
After the sauce is ready, add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta with the sauce and beef mixture, tasting and adjusting the seasoning if needed.Serving the Dish
Serve the Garlic Parmesan Beef with Rigatoni in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, but cooking times may vary.Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.How can I adjust the creaminess of the sauce?
You can increase or decrease the amount of heavy cream or use some reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness.Is it possible to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken, and use a lighter cream or milk alternative.What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the flavors and nutrition of the dish.Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Beef with Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. The creamy garlic sauce pairs beautifully with the savory beef and the sturdy rigatoni pasta, creating a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this hearty dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.Garlic Shrimp Linguine
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For a vegetarian option, try tossing penne pasta with vibrant veggies and a fresh basil pesto for a flavorful and healthy dish.Spicy Sausage Rigatoni
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