Description
Cheesy Baked Rigatoni
Ingredients:
For the Pasta
400g rigatoni pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Meat Sauce
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta
Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the Dish
In a large baking dish, mix cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce. Spread evenly and top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rigatoni for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot for a comforting, cheesy delight!
Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. 2. Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of well-salted boiling water, stirring occasionally, for 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests for al dente. Drain and return to the pot, tossing with olive oil. 3. While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat if needed. 4. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. 5. Pour in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld flavors. 6. Combine the drained pasta and meat sauce in the pot, stirring until every piece is coated. 7. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. 8. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese first, followed by the Parmesan cheese, ensuring full coverage. 9. Bake on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly. 10. Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty baked rigatoni is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a classic Italian-American spread, serve alongside garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks. A side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini also complements the dish well. Don’t forget a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat.
How-to Summary
Cook rigatoni until al dente. Brown ground beef with onion and garlic, then simmer with marinara and seasonings. Combine pasta and sauce in a baking dish, top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Penne, ziti, or shells are excellent substitutes that also hold sauce and cheese well.
How can I make a vegetarian version? Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based ground “meat” or add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach to the sauce for a vegetable-packed alternative.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Why is my baked pasta dry? This usually happens if the pasta is overcooked before baking or if the sauce is too thick. Ensure your sauce is slightly loose before mixing, as the pasta will absorb more liquid in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta initially: Boil it only to al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Not seasoning the pasta water: Salt the boiling water generously; it’s your first chance to build flavor in the pasta itself.
- Using pre-shredded bagged cheese exclusively: These cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make the topping grainy. For best melt, shred your own mozzarella block.
- Skipping the rest time: Letting the dish sit for 5 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve neat portions.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni is the epitome of comfort food, offering a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss. Its layers of flavorful meat sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and golden, bubbly cheese create a dish that feels both indulgent and familiar. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and achieve a restaurant-quality result at home. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this reliable recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your cooking repertoire.