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Bolognese Rigatoni

A comforting and rich pasta dish combining rigatoni and a robust Bolognese sauce, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Aids in sautéing and enhances the dish’s depth of flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Adds a sweet and savory base that enriches the overall taste.
  • 2 medium carrots, diced Contributes natural sweetness and a slight crunch.
  • 2 stalks celery, diced Lends a fresh and earthy flavor to the mix.
Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound lean ground beef The main protein source that provides heartiness.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the sauce with a fragrant and savory kick.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning A blend of herbs that gives the sauce an authentic Italian flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes Forms the base of the sauce, creating a rich and tangy backdrop.
  • 1 can tomato passata Adds a smooth texture and depth of tomato flavor.
Pasta and Cream
  • 12 ounces rigatoni pasta A sturdy pasta shape that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 cup whole milk Adds creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances flavor and gives a delicious cheesy finish.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery for 6-7 minutes until softened.
  3. Add ground beef, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato passata. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Boil rigatoni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in whole milk to create a creamy texture.
  7. Mix rigatoni with the sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
  8. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for a delightful finish. Enjoy!

Notes

Consider using fresh herbs alongside Italian seasoning for an aromatic boost. Always taste as you go, allowing for seasoning adjustments. Cook pasta al dente and reserve pasta water to add to the sauce for ideal consistency. Serve with additional Parmesan on the side.