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35-Minute Rigatoni with Meat Sauce – Creamy Comfort Perfection

Rigatoni with Meat Sauce

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Rich rigatoni pasta smothered in savory meat sauce — hearty, saucy perfection for the best comfort food dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara or crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown ground beef and sausage (if using), then drain excess grease.
  3. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Stir in marinara, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 8–10 minutes.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth.
  5. Toss cooked rigatoni with sauce, Parmesan, and reserved pasta water if needed.
  6. Top with Parmesan and parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency.
  • Use high-quality Parmesan for best flavor.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes for desired spice level.

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