Name: Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil and oregano; Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is a rich, hearty pasta dish loaded with savory ground beef, a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, and tender rigatoni noodles that soak up all the flavor. It’s the kind of comforting dinner I turn to when I want something filling, easy, and incredibly satisfying. This dish comes together quickly and feels like a cozy, home-cooked meal every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes simple ingredients and turns them into something special. The creamy sauce is cheesy and smooth without being heavy, and the beef adds protein and bold flavor. Rigatoni is perfect here—it holds the sauce beautifully in every bite. This is a great weeknight dinner that also feels fancy enough for serving guests. Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rigatoni pasta
Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Olive oil
Heavy cream
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper
Italian seasoning or dried basil and oregano
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package directions. I drain it and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until soft. I add the garlic and cook for another minute.
I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. I season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Once the beef is fully cooked, I reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. I let it simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken.
I add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
I toss in the cooked rigatoni and stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
I garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 30 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a flavor twist. I’ve also added sautéed mushrooms or spinach to sneak in some extra veggies. If I want to make it lighter, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce. A sprinkle of mozzarella on top and a quick broil makes it extra cheesy.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy. It also freezes well—just thaw overnight and reheat when ready. Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes. I’ve used penne, ziti, or even shells. Anything with ridges works well to hold the creamy sauce.

What kind of Parmesan should I use?

I use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth texture. Pre-grated can work, but it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. I make the whole dish, then store it covered in the fridge. I reheat it before serving, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Is this spicy?

Not unless I add red pepper flakes. I adjust the heat to my taste by adding a pinch while the beef cooks.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. I often stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers. Just make sure they’re cooked before adding them to the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and easy to make. The tender pasta, savory beef, and cheesy cream sauce come together in one comforting dish I always look forward to. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta never fails to satisfy.