Tomato, Spinach & Beef Rigatoni

This Tomato, Spinach & Beef Rigatoni is a hearty and delicious meal perfect for any night! With tender beef, fresh spinach, and a rich tomato sauce coating every bite of rigatoni, it’s comfort food at its finest.

 

If there’s one dish that screams “cozy dinner with loved ones,” it’s Tomato, Spinach & Beef Rigatoni.

It’s comforting, rich, and packed with flavor that feels like you’ve spent hours cooking —when really, you just threw it together like the kitchen genius you are. 

It features tender rigatoni smothered in a garlicky tomato sauce, and loaded with seasoned beef and fresh spinach.

It’s hearty, wholesome, and perfect for anyone who loves carbs (so, everyone).

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Why You’ll Love It

This dish is all about balance. The acidity of the tomatoes, the earthiness of the spinach, and the hearty beef come together in perfect harmony.

It’s not heavy, but it’s still hearty enough to leave you satisfied. And with an option to dial up the heat, it’s got a little something for everyone.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

● 300g rigatoni pasta

● 1 tbsp olive oil

● 1 medium onion, diced

● 3 garlic cloves, minced

● 500g bite-sized beef

● 1 tsp Italian seasoning

● ½ tsp smoked paprika

● ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

● Salt and black pepper, to taste

● 3 cups fresh tomatoes, halved

● ½ cup beef or vegetable broth

● 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

● Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

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How to Make It

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until it’s al dente, then save about a cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and golden. Add the garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Brown the Beef

Add the bite-sized beef to the skillet, seasoning it with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally.

4. Make the Sauce

Stir in the halved tomatoes and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices, creating a fresh and flavourful base.

Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for a few minutes. Add the red pepper flakes here if you’re in the mood for a little spice.

5. Add the Spinach

Stir in the spinach and let it wilt into the sauce—it only takes a minute or so. If the sauce looks a bit thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

6. Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.

7. Serve and Garnish

Dish the pasta into bowls or onto plates, then top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for an extra burst of colour and flavour.

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Serving Suggestions

This rigatoni pairs perfectly with a slice of garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. And if you’re feeling fancy, a glass of red wine makes it even better.

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Why It’ll Be Your Go-To

Tomato, Spinach & Beef Rigatoni is that perfect balance of comfort and freshness.

The beef and rigatoni make it hearty enough for a crowd, while the spinach and tomato sauce add brightness that keeps it from feeling too heavy.

It’s simple, satisfying, and just downright delicious.

So grab a fork, twirl a bite (or shovel it in—we’re not judging), and enjoy because life’s too short for boring pasta.