Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked rigatoni, smothered in a rich, hearty meat sauce that promises to transport you straight to the cozy kitchens of Italy. This isn't just another pasta dish – it's a culinary journey that combines the robust flavors of ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs in a symphony of deliciousness that will have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- While waiting for water to boil, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned and no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the beef and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the beef mixture. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Once water is boiling, add rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
- Return pasta to the pot and add the meat sauce, mixing thoroughly to ensure even coating. If sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water.
- Serve hot in individual bowls, generously topping with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Look for rigatoni with deep ridges that help sauce cling better to each piece.
- Browning is Flavor Building: Take your time when browning the ground beef. Those caramelized bits create depth of flavor.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key! Test the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions suggest.
- Reserved Pasta Water is Magic: Keep a little pasta water to help sauce adhere and create a silky texture.
- Let the Sauce Simmer: Low and slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 90mg
