Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef

The aroma of melted cheese and hearty beef wafts through the kitchen, promising a meal that’s as comforting as a warm hug. Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a blend of rich cheeses into a dish that’s simple to prepare, taking just about an hour from start to finish. It works beautifully because the layers of flavor meld together, making it a family favorite any night of the week.

This recipe is perfect for busy families looking for a satisfying dinner or anyone wanting to impress guests with minimal effort. It’s ideal for a cozy weeknight meal or a gathering, and you can make it ahead of time; just cover it and refrigerate before baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy ricotta cheese adds a delightful richness.
• The hearty ground beef provides a satisfying protein boost.
• It bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a delicious baked rigatoni dish.

For the Pasta

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheeses

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Substitutions available for ground beef and cheeses.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey for ground beef
• Cottage cheese for ricotta
• Mozzarella can be mixed with cheddar
• Gluten-free pasta for rigatoni

How to Make It

Creating this dish is straightforward and rewarding.

Preheat

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook pasta

Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Brown beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned.

Simmer sauce

Stir in the marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, beef mixture, and ricotta cheese.

Transfer

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Cool

Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, suitable for freezing before baking.
Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a heavy skillet for better heat distribution.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will bake further.
• Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes for easier serving.
• Try adding sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping.
• Offer a glass of red wine to complement the flavors.