Description

Craving a quick and comforting dinner idea that feels restaurant-quality but is easy enough for a weeknight? Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni delivers everything you want in a hearty, satisfying meal. Tender beef bites are seared to perfection, then swirled into a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce that clings beautifully to every ridged piece of rigatoni. This easy recipe is a delicious choice for those hunting for dinner ideas, quick comfort food, or hearty pasta recipes that the whole family will love. The rich, savory aroma will have everyone gathering around the table in no time. If you’re looking for easy dinner recipes, food ideas to impress guests, or simply a delicious and creamy pasta night, this is the dish to try!

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) rigatoni pasta
1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or stew meat, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup beef broth
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water)
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Add-ins:
Mushrooms
Spinach

Instructions

Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
Sear Beef: In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear beef cubes on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
Start Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Deglaze Pan: Add beef broth, scraping up browned bits for maximum flavor.
Create Cream Sauce: Lower heat, add heavy cream, and slowly incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly.
Season Sauce: Add black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (optional), and adjust salt if needed.
Combine: Return beef and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.
Garnish: Top with fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve hot!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes