Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe

This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni is a classic Italian-American casserole that’s perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal! Imagine tender rigatoni pasta baked in a rich meat sauce with a creamy ricotta cheese filling and a generous layer of melted mozzarella. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for a family weeknight dinner or a potluck with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Cheesy: The combination of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and melted mozzarella cheese creates a delicious and satisfying flavor profile that will please everyone at the table.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is always a hit with both kids and adults. It’s perfect for potlucks, game day gatherings, or any occasion where you want to serve a crowd-pleasing dish.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the meat sauce with your favorite vegetables or spices, or use a different type of cheese for the filling or topping.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Rigatoni pasta: A tubular pasta shape that’s perfect for holding the sauce and cheese filling. You can also use penne or ziti.
• Ground beef: Adds a hearty and savory base to the meat sauce.
• Onion: Chopped and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Salt and pepper: Season the meat sauce to perfection.
• Garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for a classic Italian flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat (optional).
• Minced garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory punch to the meat sauce.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the filling.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy stretch.
• Dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as a garnish.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated and adds a salty and umami flavor as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Cheesy Baked Rigatoni

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and stir in the minced garlic. Pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream, and stir to combine. Turn off the heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly in the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the meat sauce mixture, stirring gently to coat the pasta. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the meat sauce layer, then sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Bake the casserole uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before garnishing with dried parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality ground beef, cheese, and marinara sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping and sopping up the extra sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can! Other pasta shapes that would work well in this recipe include penne, ziti, or even rotini.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the dish? Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or a bay leaf would be delicious additions.

This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always satisfying. With its rich meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and cheesy topping, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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