Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef

Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef is a comforting dish that envelops your senses in a whirlwind of rich flavors and textures. This hearty meal takes just about an hour to prepare and cook, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its gooey cheese topping and savory ground beef, ensuring that everyone at the table will leave satisfied.

This recipe is ideal for families or anyone looking to whip up a delicious, filling meal without too much hassle. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy dinner at home. Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef can easily be made ahead of time, and leftovers keep well in the fridge for a few days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The rigatoni pasta provides a comforting and hearty base.
• The combination of melted mozzarella and Parmesan creates a delightful cheesy topping.
• Italian seasoning adds depth of flavor without extra hassle.
• It can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

For the Pasta

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

For the Cheese Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• Fresh basil for garnish

Use olive oil for sautéing, but any cooking oil works.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground beef can be swapped for turkey or chicken.
• Use your favorite marinara sauce or homemade.
• Mozzarella can be substituted with provolone.
• Fresh basil can be replaced with dried if unavailable.

How to Make It

Here’s how to create this mouthwatering dish:

1. Preheat

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook Pasta

Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.

3. Brown Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add ground beef. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.

4. Combine Ingredients

Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the beef until well combined.

5. Mix Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rigatoni, beef mixture, and 1 cup of mozzarella.

6. Transfer to Dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

7. Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Garnish

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, well-wrapped for freshness.
Reheat: microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a heavy skillet to evenly brown the meat.
• Drain excess fat to avoid greasy sauce.
• Bake uncovered for a crispy cheese topping.
• Let it sit for a few minutes after baking before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for a cozy dinner experience.
• Great for potluck gatherings or family events.