Here’s a hearty, comforting recipe for Rigatoni Pasta with Ground Beef and Parmesan Cheese—rich, saucy, and perfect for a satisfying meal 🍝🧀
🍝 Rigatoni with Ground Beef & Parmesan
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 300 g rigatoni pasta
- 400–500 g ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook pasta
- Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente
- Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain
2. Cook the beef
- Heat oil in a pan
- Add onion, sauté until soft
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute
- Add ground beef and cook until browned
3. Make the sauce
- Stir in tomato sauce and tomato paste
- Add salt, pepper, oregano, and chili flakes
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thick and flavorful
4. Combine
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce
- Toss well, adding a splash of pasta water if needed
5. Finish
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and mix lightly
- Garnish with parsley or basil
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Serve with garlic bread
- Add a side salad
- Top with extra cheese for a richer taste
🔥 Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor
- Don’t overcook pasta—it should stay firm
- Add a little cream for a creamy version
- Let sauce simmer for deeper flavor
✨ Variations
- Add mushrooms or spinach
- Use mixed beef + chicken mince
- Turn into baked pasta with melted cheese on top
If you want, I can give you a baked rigatoni version (cheesy, oven-melted) that tastes like restaurant-style pasta 🍝🔥