Ultimate Cheesy Baked Rigatoni
A creamy and comforting dish of baked rigatoni with layers of gooey cheese and savory ground beef, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta Holds the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds healthy fats and flavor.
- 1 pound lean ground beef Provides a hearty, savory base.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Offers a sweet, aromatic depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Bring on that fragrant goodness!
- 2 cans (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes The backbone of the rich sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Adds a touch of Italian flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste A gentle kick.
Cheese Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Melts into creamy perfection.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided For a nutty, salty finish.
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnish and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot, and cook the rigatoni until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cooking and Assembling
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the ground beef, cooking it until browned.
- Mix in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Toss the cooked rigatoni in the sauce and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Baking and Serving
- Spoon the mixture into a baking dish, and top with the remaining cheeses.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and dig in!
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for better flavor, and experiment with different cheeses. Make ahead of time and store leftovers properly to maintain quality.