Beef Stew And Rigatoni
A hearty beef stew simmered with aromatic herbs and tomato sauce, complemented by tender rigatoni pasta, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shake beef cubes in a bag with seasoned salt and flour until well coated.
- Heat oil in a 4-quart Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Brown the beef cubes a few at a time until nicely browned, then remove and set aside.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the Dutch oven and cook until softened.
- Stir in 2 teaspoons of salt, pepper, oregano leaves, and Tabasco sauce if using.
- Add the tomato sauce and enough hot water to keep the liquid about 1 inch above the meat, approximately 3 cups.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover tightly and bake in a slow oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours.
- Cook the rigatoni in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Add cooked rigatoni to the stew and stir to combine before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker stew, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of red wine. You can substitute the chuck beef with brisket or round steak for a different flavor. If you're out of rigatoni, any pasta shape will work, such as penne or fusilli. Ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly. This recipe pairs well with a side salad to balance the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your beef stew over the rigatoni, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. A crusty bread or garlic bread makes a perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light green salad or steamed vegetables. This dish is hearty enough to be a standalone meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it slowly on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain the desired consistency. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Stew And Rigatoni contains roughly 565 calories, with 16g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (267% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1999mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for this stew?
Yes! While chuck beef is ideal for stewing due to its tenderness when cooked low and slow, you can also use brisket or even turkey if you prefer a lighter option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time based on the meat used.
How do I make this stew spicier?
To increase the heat in your beef stew, add more Tabasco sauce or include red pepper flakes. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper during the cooking process. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this stew often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prep or gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).