Description
Cheesy Bacon Beef Rigatoni Bake
Ingredients:
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 lb ground beef
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup beef broth
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tbsp chopped chives
Instructions:
Cook rigatoni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside. In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy, then remove and drain. In the same skillet, cook ground beef until browned, then add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in heavy cream, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes. Mix in cooked pasta and half of the bacon. Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheeses, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with remaining bacon and chives before serving. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain and set aside. This prevents overcooking during the bake.
2. Cook Bacon & Beef: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave 1-2 tbsp of bacon fat in the skillet. Add ground beef to the same skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
3. Build the Sauce: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in heavy cream, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Combine & Assemble: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the cooked rigatoni and half of the crispy bacon until everything is well coated. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Evenly top with mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
5. Bake & Serve: Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with remaining bacon and chopped chives.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and hearty bake is a complete meal on its own. For a balanced plate, serve it with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of garlic bread or crusty rolls is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a lighter accompaniment, try steamed green beans or roasted broccoli.
How-to Summary
Cook pasta. Brown bacon and beef in the same pan. Soften onion and garlic with the beef. Create a creamy sauce with cream, broth, and seasonings. Combine sauce, pasta, and half the bacon. Top with cheese and bake at 375°F until golden and bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely (through the cheese topping), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake from cold, adding 5-10 extra minutes.
Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely. Penne, ziti, or shells are excellent substitutes. Choose a short, sturdy shape with nooks to hold the sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I substitute the heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half will work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Avoid milk, as it may curdle.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? No problem. After making the sauce, simply transfer the pasta-meat mixture to a standard greased 9×13-inch baking dish before adding the cheese and baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta only to al dente. It will continue to soften in the sauce during baking.
- Draining All the Bacon Fat: Leaving a bit of fat adds immense flavor for cooking the beef and onions.
- Skipping the Sauce Simmer: Letting the cream and broth mixture simmer for 5 minutes is crucial for flavor melding and proper thickening.
- Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Use a dish large enough so the bake is not too deep, ensuring even heating and a good cheese-to-pasta ratio.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon Beef Rigatoni Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining familiar, beloved flavors into a crowd-pleasing one-dish wonder. Its straightforward process yields impressive results, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and satisfying bake every time. Don’t forget the final garnish of fresh chives—it adds a necessary pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this hearty, delicious creation!