Ingredients:
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Aromatics
Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Make the Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce and add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 5–7 minutes.
5. Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked rigatoni to the beef sauce and mix until the pasta is well coated.
6. Assemble the Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Add spoonfuls of ricotta if using, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella. Add the remaining pasta and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
8. Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
This cheesy baked rigatoni is perfect with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and comforting meal.