Name: Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni pasta; 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

If you’re craving the most crave-worthy comfort food, look no further than Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni. This hearty pasta dish wraps tender rigatoni in a lush, velvety sauce packed with savory ground beef, melted Parmesan, and just the right kiss of tomato—and every forkful is pure bliss. With simple ingredients and a few clever steps, you’ll have a dreamy, restaurant-quality meal ready at home. Let’s get cooking!

Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whenever I make Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni, I’m amazed by how a handful of straightforward ingredients combine to deliver such a rich, layered flavor. Every item matters here, building the foundation, body, or irresistible finish for the dish. Let’s talk through what you’ll need.

Rigatoni pasta: These chunky tubes are perfect for capturing and holding onto all that luscious sauce, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
Ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor): The higher fat content gives the sauce a mouthwatering depth and richness you just can’t beat.
Olive oil: A couple of tablespoons keep everything savory and help soften the aromatics right at the start.
Medium onion, diced: Adds gentle, fragrant sweetness that forms the backbone of the sauce.
Garlic cloves, minced: Just a few cloves go a long way, infusing the sauce with bold, heady flavor.
Heavy cream: This is what turns your sauce ultra-creamy and decadent, coating every piece of pasta in silky goodness.
Beef broth: Enhances the savoriness of the beef and the overall sauce, amplifying the meaty flavors.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The star for cheesy, nutty flavor, making the sauce truly luxurious.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures the sauce has that wonderful melt and a little stretchiness.
Tomato paste: Adds depth, color, and a rich tomato punch without making the sauce too runny.
Italian seasoning: Brings that subtle herby background that makes everything taste a little more “home.”
Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch brings gentle heat if you love a hint of spice—totally up to you!
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Brightens and rounds out all the flavors—don’t be shy, taste as you go!
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish): A flourish of green right before serving for freshness and a pop of color.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by getting a big pot of salted water bubbling. Toss in your rigatoni and cook it just until al dente—you want that little bit of bite so it stands up to the creamy sauce. Don’t forget to scoop out about a cup of that starchy pasta water just before draining; it’s like liquid gold for adjusting your sauce later. Set your rigatoni aside while you build the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it soften for a few minutes until it’s golden and fragrant, then stir in the minced garlic. That aroma will let you know you’re off to a delicious start! Let the garlic cook just a minute—it burns quickly but adds so much flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next, crumble in the ground beef. Take your time and really break it up with a spatula so it cooks evenly. Give it about six to eight minutes, stirring occasionally. Once it’s no longer pink and you see those caramelized bits, carefully drain any excess fat to keep the sauce silky without being greasy.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Seasoning

Now it’s time for the flavor bombs! Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes for a little warmth (if desired), along with a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Let everything cook together for two or three minutes—the tomato paste should deepen in color and become more fragrant, making your kitchen smell incredible.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, then stir everything together. Turn the heat down and let your sauce simmer gently for five to seven minutes. As it thickens, the flavors combine into that signature creamy, comforting base that defines Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan, stirring as you go. Watch it melt and blend with the sauce until it’s silky and glossy. Finish with mozzarella for added creaminess and just a hint of that irresistible cheese pull. Stir until smooth—you’ll know you’ve hit creamy perfection when the sauce looks rich and shiny.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked rigatoni right into the skillet, tossing until every tube is generously coated. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash or two of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. The pasta will drink up just enough of the sauce to make sure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy beef rigatoni onto your favorite plates or into pasta bowls. Shower each portion with a little extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot and watch the whole table light up!

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

Garnishes

For an unforgettable finish, scatter a little more grated Parmesan over each serving and toss on some freshly chopped parsley or basil. Not only does this add a beautiful pop of green, but it instantly lifts the entire dish and brings the flavors together. If you’re feeling a little fancy, a lightweight drizzle of good olive oil just before serving adds an extra shine and depth.

Side Dishes

Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is the star, but it shines even brighter with the perfect sides. I love pairing it with a fresh, crisp green salad tossed lightly in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. Warm, crusty garlic bread or a rustic Italian loaf is ideal for mopping up every last bit of sauce. If you want more veggies, simply roasted asparagus or broccoli works beautifully, rounding out your comfort food feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, serve your Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni in individual mini cast iron pans, oven-safe bowls, or ramekins for a personal touch. For dinner parties, garnish each dish tableside or bring the whole skillet to the middle of the table and let everyone help themselves family-style. You can even serve it “bake-style” by popping the finished dish under the broiler for a few minutes to brown the cheesy top—everyone loves a bubbly golden crust!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni are a treasure! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce will thicken up a little as it sits, but it’ll still taste absolutely scrumptious when you’re ready for seconds.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead or save leftovers for later, this dish can be frozen. Just scoop portions into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to two months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave single portions on medium power, stirring halfway through. Taste and add a sprinkle of Parmesan to refresh the flavors!

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s large tubes are perfect for holding onto thick sauce, other sturdy shapes like penne, ziti, or even fusilli can work if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Does this dish work with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes! If you want a lighter take on Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just season the meat well, as it’s a little milder in flavor, and follow the recipe as written—you’ll still get a creamy, satisfying result.

Can I make Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni ahead of time for a party?

You sure can. Prepare the dish up to the point where you combine the pasta and sauce, then cool and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed. For extra wow, sprinkle on more cheese and brown under the broiler before serving.

What’s a good vegetarian version?

For a meat-free riff, try swapping in sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of roasted vegetables instead of the ground beef. The same creamy Parmesan sauce works beautifully with heartier veggies, and you’ll still get a luscious, crowd-pleasing meal.

How can I make it spicier?

If you love extra heat, don’t hold back on the red pepper flakes! You can also stir in a splash of hot sauce or top each serving with some chopped pickled peppers. Adjust spice to your preference and the Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni will have an added kick.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni enough for anyone looking to dazzle at the dinner table with minimal fuss. This dish is all about indulgence, warmth, and joy—so pour a glass of wine, gather loved ones, and watch how fast it disappears. I hope you fall in love with every creamy, cheesy bite!