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Baked Rigatoni with Meat Sauce and Cheese

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A classic oven-baked rigatoni dish layered with savory meat sauce and plenty of melted cheese, ideal for a cozy family dinner or gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
  4. Add garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce in a large bowl.
  7. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spoon ricotta cheese evenly over the pasta.
  8. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  9. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef.
  • Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor.
  • This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked when needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked rigatoni, cheesy pasta bake, meat sauce pasta, Italian casserole

Find it online: https://yumcove.com/baked-rigatoni-with-meat-sauce-and-cheese/