Italian Rigatoni Bake
Dive into this flavorful Italian Rigatoni Bake with savory ground beef, vibrant tomatoes, and gooey cheese for a comforting dish that's easy to prepare and share.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat Ingredients
- 16 oz rigatoni pasta Holds the sauce beautifully with a chewy bite.
- 1 lb lean ground beef Adds rich flavor and protein.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced Provides sweetness and savory depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes Forms the base sauce, tangy and vibrant.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Brings herby notes to the mix.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) A hint of heat, perfect for spice lovers.
- Salt and pepper to taste salt and pepper Enhances all the flavors.
Cheese and Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melty perfection on top.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Adds a nutty, salty kick.
Cooking and Garnishing
- 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing and flavor.
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water Helps bind the sauce to pasta.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) fresh parsley A bright finish to the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Cooking and Assembling
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- Drain any excess fat and stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce mixture in a large bowl. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Mix in mozzarella and half of the parmesan cheese.
Baking and Serving
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with remaining parmesan and extra mozzarella.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm to your eager friends and family!
Notes
Swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Make a double batch and freeze half for later. Avoid overcooking the pasta; always keep it al dente.