
This Hearty Parmesan Beef and Rigatoni mixes mouthwatering flavors and textures in one bowl. You'll love the combo of juicy beef chunks, tube-shaped pasta, and velvety Parmesan sauce. It's a no-fuss dinner that comes together in just half an hour, making it perfect for busy nights or when you want to feed the family something tasty. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra cheese on top gives this filling dish a little pop of color and flavor.
INGREDIENTS- Fresh parsley: chopped, to garnish your dish
- Italian seasoning: 1 tsp, to add herbal notes
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, for that rich, tangy taste
- Heavy cream: 1 cup, creates the smooth sauce base
- Beef broth: 1 cup, brings depth to the sauce
- Minced garlic: 3 cloves, for a punch of flavor
- Diced onion: 1 small, adds sweetness when cooked
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp, used for cooking the meat
- Salt and pepper: to taste, brings out the beef's flavor
- Beef sirloin or stew meat: 1 lb, cut small for quick cooking
- Rigatoni pasta: 12 oz, forms the backbone of this meal
- Step 6:
- Top with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if you'd like. Dish it up while it's hot.
- Step 5:
- Put the beef back in the pan, dump in your cooked pasta, and mix everything together in that creamy sauce. Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can mingle.
- Step 4:
- Add the beef broth and scrape the tasty browned bits off the bottom. Stir in your cream, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Let it bubble gently for 5 minutes until it starts to get thicker.
- Step 3:
- Throw the onion and garlic into the same pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they're soft and smell good.
- Step 2:
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on your beef chunks. Heat the olive oil in a big pan over medium-high heat and cook the beef until it's brown on all sides (about 5-6 minutes). Take it out and set it aside.
- Step 1:
- Fill a big pot with water, add salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook your rigatoni following the box directions until it's still a bit firm. Drain and put aside.
- Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to make the sauce creamy again.
- Keep any leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Eat right away for the best creamy result.
- If you want some heat, toss in some red pepper flakes while the sauce cooks.
- Try mixing Parmesan with Romano cheese for an even richer taste.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Lisa suggests topping with fresh basil or oregano to add bright flavor.
This dish brings together tender beef, just-right pasta, and a silky cheese sauce that'll make your mouth water. It's fast enough for a Wednesday night but tastes like you spent hours on it. Pair it with some crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal that'll make everyone happy.
FAQsCan I use a different type of pasta?
Sure thing! Penne, ziti, or any tube-shaped pasta works just as well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce up to 2 days ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just cook fresh pasta when you're ready to eat.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yep, flank steak or skirt steak works great instead of sirloin or stew meat.
Is there a dairy-free option?
You can swap in coconut cream or any non-dairy cream and use a plant-based Parmesan if you can't do dairy.
