Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef
A hearty Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef, enriched with flavorful marinara sauce and topped with melting cheeses, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta Cook to al dente.
- 1 pound ground beef Choose for flavor and fat content.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the beef.
Sauce and Seasoning
- 24 ounces marinara sauce A good marinara balances acidity and richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adds complexity.
- 1 to taste Salt
- 1 to taste Pepper
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Provides classic melt and stretch.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds nutty tang.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it sizzles.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assembly and Baking
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the beef mixture in a large mixing bowl, tossing to coat each piece.
- Transfer this mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For best results, cook pasta to al dente. Variations include using turkey for a lighter dish, adding vegetables for extra nutrition, or experimenting with different cheeses. Store leftovers in an airtight container; they last up to four days in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.