Name: Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni; 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional); 1 cup milk; Parmesan for serving; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, finely diced; 2 celery stalks, finely diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup broth or wine; 1 can crushed tomatoes; Salt, pepper, Italian herbs (to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 32 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of a meal that wraps you in a warm, comforting hug, this Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Italian pasta dish features rigatoni generously coated in a slow-simmered, rich meat sauce packed with layers of flavor from ground beef, Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs. It is a perfect blend of simple ingredients transformed into something utterly delicious—ideal for family dinners or impressing friends with an authentic taste of Italy right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of many clear glass bowls and containers arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl near the top center holds dry yellow penne pasta. Other bowls contain chopped white onions, diced orange carrots, chopped green celery, and crushed red tomatoes with seeds showing. There are also bowls with raw ground meat in two shades, chopped mushrooms, minced garlic, and small bits of bacon. More containers hold clear liquids, likely broth and oil, with one small container of white cream. Tiny bowls with salt, black pepper, and dried herbs are placed around. A white bay leaf lies flat near the center bottom. The light is soft and bright. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe plays a vital role, adding texture, depth, and color to the dish. From the hearty rigatoni pasta to the blend of aromatic vegetables and savory meats, this list is straightforward but essential for creating that beloved Bolognese flavor.

1 lb rigatoni: The ridged tubes hold the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
1 lb ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base for the sauce, essential for that hearty texture.
1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional): Adds a spicy, savory depth that elevates the meat sauce.
1 onion, chopped: Softens during cooking to create a natural sweetness in the sauce.
2 carrots, finely diced: Bring subtle sweetness and texture that balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
2 celery stalks, finely diced: Offer an earthy, aromatic flavor classic to Bolognese.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuse the sauce with a warm, inviting aroma.
1 cup milk: Tenderizes the meat and adds creaminess to the sauce.
1 cup broth or wine: Enhances the sauce’s depth and complexity while allowing it to simmer beautifully.
1 can crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, providing rich tomato flavor and a luscious texture.
Salt, pepper, Italian herbs: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
Parmesan for serving: Adds a salty, nutty finish that completes the dish perfectly.

How to Make Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Begin by heating a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage if using, breaking them apart with a spoon as they cook. Brown the meat thoroughly until no pink remains and the edges start to crisp slightly. This caramelization creates a rich foundation of flavor that defines the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Once the meat is browned, stir in the chopped onion, diced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook gently until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, releasing their sweet and aromatic qualities into the sauce. Don’t rush this step—it’s key for building layers of complexity.

Step 3: Add Milk and Let It Absorb

Pour in the cup of milk and let it simmer with the meat and vegetables until mostly absorbed. This might seem unusual, but the milk tenderizes the meat and mellows the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a luxuriously smooth Bolognese.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and your choice of broth or wine, then season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and reduce the heat to low for a slow simmer. Let the sauce cook slowly for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop a deep, rich flavor that is the hallmark of an incredible Bolognese.

Step 5: Cook the Rigatoni

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. The ridges of the rigatoni are perfect for holding onto the thick sauce, so don’t overcook.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Drain the rigatoni and mix it thoroughly into the Bolognese sauce, ensuring every piece is generously coated. Serve immediately with a hearty sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to uplift every bite.

How to Serve Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe

A white bowl filled with short tubular pasta covered in a chunky tomato sauce with pieces of mushrooms and herbs mixed in. The pasta is topped with a light sprinkle of grated cheese that adds a slightly crumbly texture. A metal fork rests inside the bowl on the left side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth napkin to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To finish your dish beautifully, a simple scattering of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds just the right touch of sharpness and saltiness. For a bit of fresh brightness, chopped flat-leaf parsley can be sprinkled on top, offering a pop of color and a mild herbal note that complements the rich sauce wonderfully.

Side Dishes

A Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe is hearty enough on its own but pairs delightfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf is perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce, making the meal even more indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering the Bolognese and rigatoni in a baking dish, then topping it with mozzarella and Parmesan before baking until bubbly and golden—think of it as a pasta casserole with a delightfully crispy top. Another idea is serving the sauce over creamy polenta for a cozy variant that will surprise and delight your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Rigatoni Bolognese, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled sauce and pasta separately into freezer-safe containers. The sauce can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Rigatoni Bolognese on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Alternatively, the microwave works well, but be sure to cover and stir halfway through heating for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I make Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe without Italian sausage?

Absolutely! The sausage adds a lovely layer of spice and flavor, but the dish is delicious and hearty with just ground beef. You can also use ground pork or a mix of meats for variation.

How long should I simmer the sauce?

Simmering for 45 to 60 minutes is ideal to develop a rich flavor, but if you have more time, letting it go longer will only deepen the taste. Just be sure to stir occasionally and add a bit of liquid if it gets too thick.

What kind of wine is best to use in this recipe?

A dry red wine like Chianti or Merlot works wonderfully to enhance the sauce’s complexity, but if you prefer, beef broth or even a robust vegetable broth can be used instead.

Can I use other types of pasta?

While rigatoni is perfect because its ridges capture the sauce so well, you can substitute with other sturdy pastas like penne or rigatoncini. Avoid delicate or thin noodles, as they won’t hold up to the hearty sauce.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap the meats for finely chopped mushrooms or lentils for earthy texture, and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth or wine.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a well-made Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe that feels like a delicious celebration of Italian cooking. With its rich, slow-simmered meat sauce enveloping those perfectly textured rigatoni tubes, it’s a dish that invites you to slow down and savor every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—once you do, it will no doubt become a cherished favorite in your kitchen just as it is in mine.