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Classic beef rigatoni: Discover this hearty recipe!

classic beef rigatoni

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Classic beef rigatoni is a rich, saucy, hearty, and absolutely comforting dish perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Freshly grated parmesan (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  3. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  4. Mix in tomato paste and cook 1 minute to deepen flavor.
  5. Pour in marinara sauce and beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 8–10 minutes until thick and rich.
  6. Add drained pasta to the sauce. Toss well to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for silkiness.
  7. Sprinkle with parsley and freshly grated parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Serve with warm crusty bread
  • Add a side Caesar salad
  • Top with extra parmesan for indulgence
  • Brown the beef well for deeper flavor
  • Let sauce simmer gently for richness
  • Stir in a knob of butter at the end for glossy finish

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