Description
Cheesy Baked Beef Rigatoni
Indulge in layers of rich, meaty sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and ooey-gooey melted cheese. This baked rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1/2 cup beef broth or water
For the Cheese Layer:
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Pour in marinara sauce and beef broth, simmering for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce.
Add half of the pasta, then layer with ricotta and Parmesan cheese.
Add the rest of the pasta, cover with more sauce, and top with shredded mozzarella.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve hot with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad.
Pairing Suggestions
Enjoy with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon!
Pairs well with a classic soda or iced tea for a casual meal.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a foolproof result. First, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. While the pasta boils, start browning your beef. Break it into small crumbles for the best texture. After adding the marinara and broth, let the sauce simmer to deepen the flavors. When assembling, don’t skip the thin base layer of sauce—it prevents sticking. Dot the ricotta in small spoonfuls over the first pasta layer for even distribution. Finally, let the baked dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving; this allows the layers to set for cleaner slices.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a meal in itself but is elevated with the right sides. Serve generous portions with warm, buttery garlic bread for dipping. A light, crisp Caesar or simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For a family-style spread, add roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. Leftovers (if you have any!) are excellent reheated for lunch.
How-to Summary
To make Cheesy Baked Beef Rigatoni: Cook rigatoni al dente. Brown ground beef with onion, garlic, and seasonings. Stir in marinara and broth to create the sauce. In a baking dish, layer sauce, pasta, ricotta, Parmesan, then repeat. Top with mozzarella. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this 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? Rigatoni’s tubes hold sauce well. Penne or ziti are excellent substitutes. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti.
How can I make it less greasy? Use lean ground beef (90/10) and drain any excess fat thoroughly after browning.
Can I freeze baked rigatoni? Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, covered, in the oven.
What can I use instead of ricotta? Cottage cheese (small curd) or a mixture of cream cheese thinned with a little milk are good alternatives for a similar creamy layer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: It must be al dente to avoid becoming mushy during baking.
- Skipping the beef broth/water: This thins the jarred sauce just enough to keep the final dish moist.
- Using pre-shredded bagged mozzarella: These contain anti-caking agents that can make the topping grainy. Shredding a block of cheese melts much better.
- Not letting it rest: Cutting in immediately causes the layers to slide apart. A brief rest ensures perfect serving.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Beef Rigatoni is the epitome of satisfying comfort food. With its simple layers of flavorful meat sauce, pasta, and melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a perfectly baked pasta dish every time. Enjoy the delicious, hearty results!