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Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef

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Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting pasta casserole layered with savory meat sauce, melty mozzarella, and Parmesan. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, this baked rigatoni is rich, satisfying, and freezer-friendly. Serve it fresh from the oven for the ultimate cheesy pasta comfort food.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, optional for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in onion and garlic; cook until softened.
  5. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer 5–10 minutes.
  6. Combine cooked rigatoni and meat sauce in a large bowl until evenly coated.
  7. Spread half the pasta mixture into baking dish; top with half mozzarella and Parmesan.
  8. Repeat layers with remaining pasta and cheeses.
  9. Cover with foil; bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 minutes more, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  10. Rest 5 minutes; garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce.
  • Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
  • Swap half the mozzarella for provolone for richer flavor.
  • Stir in ricotta or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
  • Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months; thaw before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/cheesy-baked-rigatoni-with-ground-beef/