Description
Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Meatballs
“A rich, cheesy, and hearty baked pasta dish loaded with tender meatballs and marinara sauce—pure comfort in every bite!”
Ingredients
:
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt & pepper
For the Pasta & Sauce:
3 cups rigatoni or penne pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried basil
For the Cheese Topping:
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated parmesan
Instructions
:
Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roll into small meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear meatballs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Boil the Pasta: Cook rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with marinara sauce, garlic powder, and basil.
Assemble & Bake: In a baking dish, layer the saucy pasta, add meatballs, and sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
Bake & Serve: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly, then dig in!
Perfect for a cozy family dinner—serve with garlic bread & enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the best results. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). For the meatballs, combine all ingredients in a large bowl, mixing with your hands just until incorporated—overmixing makes tough meatballs. Roll into 1-inch balls. In a large skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches to avoid crowding, turning to get a good sear on all sides. They do not need to be cooked through. While meatballs brown, cook the pasta in well-salted water, draining it 1-2 minutes before the package’s al dente time. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. In the same pot, combine the drained pasta, marinara sauce, garlic powder, basil, and a splash of pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a meal in itself, but perfect pairings elevate it. Serve with a crisp green salad with Italian vinaigrette to cut the richness. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are classic for soaking up sauce. For a lighter side, try roasted broccoli or asparagus. A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato and meat flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix and sear meatballs. Cook pasta al dente. Toss pasta with sauce and seasonings. In a baking dish, layer saucy pasta and meatballs. Top generously with cheeses. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes. Penne, ziti, or shells work well. Choose shapes with nooks to hold the sauce.
Can I make this ahead? Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use store-bought meatballs? For a shortcut, yes. Use fully cooked frozen meatballs and add them directly to the pasta before baking.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Can I freeze baked rigatoni? Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, covered, in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: It will soften further in the oven. Cook only until al dente.
- Overmixing meatball meat: This develops too much gluten, resulting in dense, tough meatballs.
- Skipping the meatball sear: Browning creates crucial flavor. Don’t just add raw meatballs to the bake.
- Using pre-shredded bagged cheese: These contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Shred your own cheese for the best texture.
- Not letting it rest: Allow the bake to cool for 5-10 minutes after oven; this lets the sauce set for cleaner serving.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Meatballs is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory homemade meatballs, perfectly sauced pasta, and a golden cheese topping. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both impressive and deeply satisfying. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for weeknights or entertaining, guaranteed to become a family favorite.