Description
This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni is a comforting and hearty Italian-American casserole featuring perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta layered with a flavorful ground beef marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it makes a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 16 oz rigatoni pasta
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 (24 oz) jars marinara sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- Dried parsley, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to be used later in the casserole.
- Brown Beef and Make Sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Once browned, drain the excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic, marinara sauce, and heavy cream. Turn off the heat and mix well to combine all flavors.
- Layer Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Begin layering by placing half of the cooked rigatoni pasta on the bottom, followed by half of the meat sauce. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the sauce, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers once more with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly, ensuring the casserole is hot and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the baked rigatoni from the oven and garnish with dried parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta in boiling water; al dente ensures it won’t become mushy after baking.
- If you prefer a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For extra gooeyness, add an additional ¼ cup mozzarella cheese on top before baking.
