Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Beef with Rigatoni is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce. The rigatoni pasta adds a wonderful texture that makes each bite satisfying. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your family and friends with a hearty meal.
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
Approximately 10 minutes.
Cook Time
About 20 minutes.
Total Time
30 minutes.
Yield
Serves 4 people.
Enjoy a delicious serving of Garlic Parmesan Beef with Rigatoni, perfect for any pasta lover!
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.
– Add the ground beef (or beef stew meat) and cook, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
– Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
– 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 the 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 Variations:
– You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
– For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms.
Cooking Tips:
– Make sure not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter.
– Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
– Pair with a side salad or garlic bread to complement the meal.
– Adjust portion sizes based on your dining scenario; this recipe serves approximately 4.
Cook Techniques
Cooking Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the rigatoni. Cook according to package directions until al dente, ensuring the pasta retains a firm texture for better absorption of the sauce.
Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or beef stew meat, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even browning. Drain excess fat once cooked.
Sauteing Garlic
Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Making Cream Sauce
Pour heavy cream into the skillet after sautéing the garlic and bring it to a simmer. Allow the cream to thicken slightly before stirring in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combining Ingredients
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and meat mixture. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
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.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but the texture and flavor may differ.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef while cooking.
Can I use pre-cooked beef?
Yes, if you’re using pre-cooked beef, you can simply heat it through in the skillet before adding it to the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Conclusion
The Garlic Parmesan Beef with Rigatoni is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the rich flavors of beef, creamy sauce, and pasta. Its simplicity makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it can be easily customized to suit your taste. Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of elegance, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will love.
Classic Chicken Alfredo
Try substituting chicken for the beef in this recipe for a classic chicken alfredo version. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with grilled or sautéed chicken, making it a family favorite.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian twist, use mushrooms or a mix of seasonal vegetables instead of meat. Sauté the veggies until tender before adding them to the creamy sauce for a hearty, meat-free meal.
Pesto Rigatoni
Mix in some pesto sauce along with the garlic Parmesan sauce for an herby kick. This addition pairs well with spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.
Spicy Sausage and Peppers
Add sliced spicy Italian sausage and bell peppers to the mix for a flavorful and zesty version. This combination adds a wonderful depth and a bit of heat to the dish.
One-Pot Dish
Convert this into a one-pot dish by adding the rigatoni directly into the skillet with the beef and sauce, using broth instead of cream. This method infuses the pasta with flavor while making cleanup easier.
Seafood Variation
For seafood lovers, consider using shrimp or scallops in place of beef. Cook the seafood until just tender, then toss it with the creamy sauce and rigatoni for a luxurious meal.
