Why Make This Recipe
Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake is a comforting dish that everyone loves. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of ground beef, pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese creates a delightful meal. Plus, it’s a great way to please picky eaters, making dinner time stress-free.
How to Make Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook until the beef is no longer pink.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
How to Serve Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake
Serve Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake hot from the oven. It is delicious on its own or with a side salad and garlic bread. For a bit of fresh flavor, sprinkle more basil or some red pepper flakes on top before serving.
How to Store Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake
To store leftover Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor. You can include provolone or cheddar.
- For added veggies, consider mixing in spinach or bell peppers with the beef.
Variation
You can easily customize this dish. Try using turkey or chicken instead of beef, or switch up the cheese. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add extra vegetables instead!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or ziti.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything and cover it. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
