Baked Cheesy Rigatoni

Name: Baked Cheesy Rigatoni
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: For the sauce; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 2 lb ground beef; 2 teaspoons garlic minced; 24 oz jar pasta sauce; 8 oz can tomato sauce; salt and pepper to taste; For pasta:; 16 ounces rigatoni pasta cooked according to package directions; 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley; cooking spray

KrystelDecember 2, 2023

DifficultyEasy

Total time1 hour35 minutes

Servings8

Introduction to Cheesy Baked Rigatoni

I've always believed that nothing says comfort food quite like a dish that marries the richness of ground beef with the heartiness of tube-shaped pasta and a generous layer of gooey cheese. This Cheesy Baked Beef Rigatoni, a recipe perfected over time, has become a family favorite, enchanting everyone at the dinner table. The allure of this scrumptious bake lies in its blend of slightly al dente rigatoni noodles, a savory, flavorful meat sauce, and a topping of lusciously melted cheese that forms a golden brown crust.

What sets this dish apart is the minimal effort it requires for a result that's bursting with flavor — a testament to the magic of combining simple, quality ingredients. Suitable for making on a busy night, it promises a satisfying dinner that's ready to grace any table with pure comfort and joy. This Cheesy Baked Beef Rigatoni is not just a meal; it's an embrace in the form of food. Key Takeaways:

The perfect combination of pasta, meat, and cheese offers a comforting and satisfying meal.
It's remarkably easy to prepare, making it ideal for stress-free dinners.
This dish is adaptable for various occasions, from weeknight meals to family gatherings.

Ingredients List

For the Sauce:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 lb ground beef
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 24 oz jar pasta sauce
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
For the Pasta:
- 16 ounces rigatoni pasta, to be cooked al dente according to package directions
- A large pot of salted water for boiling the pasta
For the Cheese Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: extra parmesan cheese for topping

Prepping the Meat Sauce

I started by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Next, I added the ground beef. I made sure to season it with kosher salt and black pepper for that depth of flavor we all crave in a meat sauce. The sizzle as the ground meat hit the pan was my cue; the creation of the perfect cheesy baked rigatoni dish had begun.

After browning the beef, I stirred in the tomato sauce and a touch of Italian seasoning, transforming the mixture into a flavorful meat sauce. Simmering it was crucial. This step allowed the sauce to thicken slightly, ensuring that every bite of the baked pasta would be richly coated in savory goodness. It wasn’t just about combining ingredients; it was about crafting a sauce that would make the rigatoni bake a family favorite.

Assembling the Rigatoni Bake

I boiled the rigatoni noodles just until they reached al dente perfection. This critical step ensures they don't become mushy during the baking process. I then drained them, setting aside the pasta water, a trick I learned to keep the pasta from sticking together. In a large pot of salted water, the noodles had swirled and danced to just the right tenderness.

Next came the layering. I spread a thin layer of flavorful meat sauce in the bottom of a greased casserole dish. A spoonful at a time, I carefully added the drained rigatoni, ensuring each tube was coated in that rich, savory sauce. Mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded for its superior melting qualities, sprinkled generously on top, promised a gooey, golden brown finish. For a dash of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes found their way into the mix, a simple optional step for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Assembly was a breeze, setting the stage for a baked pasta masterpiece. With every ingredient in place, the rigatoni bake was ready to transform in the oven’s warmth.

Baking to Perfection

I had preheated the oven to a cozy 375 degrees Fahrenheit, a temperature ideal for transforming the gooey cheese into a golden brown spectacle. A casserole or baking dish, I've found, does wonders for even heat distribution, ensuring every tube-shaped pasta is baked to perfection. For best results, I covered the dish with aluminum foil and let it cook for 20 minutes. Patience was my companion as the aroma filled my kitchen.

Then, unveiling the rigatoni bake to the heat's direct embrace, I watched as it bubbled and danced under the broiler for an additional 10 minutes. This final step was crucial. It turned the cheesy pasta from just cooked to a crispy, irresistible top layer every family craves. My baked pasta, a dish of minimal effort yet maximum flavor, was ready to be served.

Family Night Favorite

I've found that nothing unites us like a steaming dish of cheesy baked rigatoni on the dining table. After a busy night, knowing that a hearty meal awaits at home has always brought comfort to me. This easy pasta bake, brimming with gooey cheese and tender pasta, has earned its place as a family favorite. For best results, each bite combines the rich flavors of ground beef and a savory tomato sauce, enveloped in perfectly cooked rigatoni. With minimal effort, this dish transforms an ordinary evening into a special occasion.

Now, imagine pairing it with a fresh Caesar salad or some sautéed fresh spinach. Such additions promise a well-rounded meal, ensuring that every nutritional box is checked. The blend of the Italian food's pure comfort with the freshness of the greens elevates dinner into a more holistic dining experience. Hence, I encourage you to make this cheesy rigatoni a staple in your home. Let its rich layers of flavor and satisfying texture become a regular delight in your meal rotation.

As you present this beautiful creation, your loved ones will be drawn in by the irresistible flavors and eye-catching presentation.
Krystel’s Cooking

Revisiting this great recipe time and again, I can assure you that its allure doesn't fade. Whether it's your first time whipping up this easy baked rigatoni recipe or it has become a cherished menu item, the satisfaction it brings is constant. Embrace this dish for what it is: an embodiment of comfort, a herald of togetherness, and a testament to the joy of cooking and eating together as a family.