Heart-Healthy Beef Rigatoni

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Heart-Healthy Beef Rigatoni, a nutritious spin on a classic Italian favorite. This recipe combines tender whole-grain rigatoni with lean ground beef, a medley of vibrant veggies, and a robust tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs. Packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach, carrots, and red bell pepper, this dish delivers a burst of nutrients without sacrificing flavor. A light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil adds a gourmet touch, while olive oil and no-salt-added tomatoes keep it heart-smart. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a perfect go-to for nourishing weeknight dinners that delight the whole family.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Whole-grain rigatoni
• 1 pound Lean ground beef (93% lean or higher)
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 3 Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium Red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium Carrot, finely chopped
• 2 cups Baby spinach leaves
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) No-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 1 cup Tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian seasoning
• 0.25 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 0.25 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-grain rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3

3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and chopped carrot to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4

4. Stir in the baby spinach, and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 5

5. Add the no-salt-added diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 6

6. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, stirring occasionally.

Step 7

7. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss it with the sauce until well combined and heated through.

Step 8

8. Serve the rigatoni hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Step 9

9. Enjoy your heart-healthy beef rigatoni!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1979.5 grams (1979.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2906

Total Fat 97.70g	125%
Saturated Fat 40.90g	205%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 426mg	142%
Sodium 3771mg	164%
Total Carbohydrate 308.20g	112%
Dietary Fiber 36.20g	129%
Total Sugars 35.60g
Protein 206.30g	413%

Vitamin D 32IU	159%
Calcium 1824mg	140%
Iron 28mg	154%
Potassium 4115mg	88%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.9%

Protein: 28.1%

Carbs: 42.0%