Description
Rigatoni alla Grassa is a rich and indulgent Italian pasta dish featuring tender rigatoni pasta coated in a velvety, creamy meat sauce. Made with buttery aromatics, hearty ground meat, and aged Parmesan, this dish is a true comfort food classic. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or special occasion, this authentic recipe delivers bold, savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ lb (225g) ground beef
- ½ lb (225g) Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ¾ cup (75g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed to adjust sauce consistency)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the rigatoni until al dente, following the package instructions (typically 10-12 minutes).
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until soft and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Cook until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its flavor.
- Lower the heat and slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add the cooked rigatoni directly to the pan, tossing it in the sauce.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a smoother consistency.
Step 5: Final Touches & Serving
- Let the pasta sit for a minute to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Flavor Adjustments: Add red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Meat Variations: Substitute turkey sausage or mushrooms for a leaner or vegetarian-friendly option.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
- Serving Idea: Pair with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 720 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Italian pasta recipe, creamy rigatoni dish, homemade pasta sauce, traditional Italian dinner, easy pasta recipe, hearty meat sauce, classic comfort food