Name: Delicious Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 lb ground Italian sausage; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 lb rigatoni pasta; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty plate of cheesy baked rigatoni pasta. This dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef, Italian sausage, and a savory marinara sauce, all enveloped in a blanket of gooey mozzarella cheese. The blend of these ingredients creates a symphony of taste that pleases the palate and warms the soul. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, cheesy baked rigatoni is a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. You can prepare it in a short amount of time, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal or a weekend feast. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish without much hassle. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead option. So let’s dive into the irresistible world of cheesy baked rigatoni that is bound to become your new favorite comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Pasta

Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is warm, cheesy, and filling, making it the perfect solution for chillier nights or lazy weekends.
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and some straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal in no time.
Versatile: You can customize ingredients according to your preferences, swapping meat or adding extra veggies to fit your dietary needs.
Kid-Friendly: The combination of pasta and cheese will surely be a hit with the little ones!
Great for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge and is easy to reheat, ensuring wonderful leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen for the cheesy baked rigatoni adventure. Start by gathering all the necessary tools and ingredients so you won’t have to scramble later. You’ll need a large skillet for browning the meats and sautéing the vegetables, a pot for boiling the rigatoni, and a 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling the dish.

Having measuring spoons and a wooden spoon for stirring will also be handy. Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s hot and ready once your rigatoni assemblage is all set. Make sure you have your ingredients on the counter, chopped, and ready to go to streamline the cooking process. This preparation will save you time and effort, allowing you to enjoy the cooking experience.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1 lb ground Italian sausage
1 large yellow onion, diced
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 lb rigatoni pasta
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Begin your cheesy baked rigatoni by preheating your oven to 350°F. As the oven warms up, take your 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This will help prevent the pasta from sticking and make for easier cleanup later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. The aroma will soon draw everyone into the kitchen, anticipating the delightful meal you’re creating. This step lays the foundation for incredible flavor in your dish, as both onion and garlic form a flavorful base.

Step 3: Cook the Meats

Add the lean ground beef and ground Italian sausage to the skillet. Use a spatula to break apart the meat as it cooks. Sauté until the mixture is browned thoroughly, which should take around 10 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep your dish from becoming too greasy.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

After browning the meat, stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and creates a rich sauce that will pair perfectly with the pasta.

Step 5: Cook the Rigatoni

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it until just al dente, following the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). You don’t want it fully cooked, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the rigatoni is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour the simmering meat sauce over the rigatoni, tossing gently to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce. This step is vital for flavor, as the sauce clings to the pasta, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste.

Step 7: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer the rigatoni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Now comes the best part: topping it with the shredded mozzarella cheese! Generously sprinkle the cheese over the pasta to create an irresistible cheesy crust. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake it covered for about 20 minutes. This helps to melt the cheese and warm everything through. After 20 minutes, remove the foil, and continue to bake for another 10–15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown—a beautiful sight to behold! Finally, allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to set up the cheese.

Variations

Protein: Swap the ground beef and sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also try using plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. You can sauté the veggies along with the onions and garlic or add them directly to the sauce.
Spices: For a zingy flavor, add red pepper flakes for some heat or mix in fresh basil or oregano for an aromatic touch.

Cooking Notes

Always taste the sauce before serving. You may want to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preferences.
If you want a crunchy top, you can broil the dish for a few minutes after baking to achieve a crispy cheese layer. Just watch closely to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your cheesy baked rigatoni with a mixed green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are perfect accompaniments for soaking up any leftover sauce!

Tips

For a deeper flavor, you can make your marinara sauce using canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs instead of store-bought.
Feel free to assemble the dish in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for meal prep!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
Protein: 26g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rigatoni and meat sauce ahead of time, then assemble and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I freeze cheesy baked rigatoni?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it directly from the freezer; just add extra time.

What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?

You can substitute with other melty cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

In the world of comfort food, cheesy baked rigatoni pasta is an undeniable star—combining savory meats, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich marinara sauce into a delicious meal. Its simplicity, adaptability, and irresistible cheesy topping make it an excellent choice for family mealtimes or gatherings with friends.

We hope this recipe inspires you to gather your loved ones around the table for a delicious weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast. Let us know how it turns out, your personal variations, or any tips you’ve developed along the way. Share the joy of this comforting dish, and don’t forget to save leftovers for lunch—they may just taste even better the next day!