Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the meat and vegetables.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Onion: Stir in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the bolognese sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or red wine to the sauce while simmering.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or pork for a different variation.
- Fresh basil or parsley can be added on top for a fresh herb garnish.
- Use gluten-free rigatoni for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian