Baked Rigatoni Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Baked Rigatoni Recipe is just what you need! This pasta bake is an easy and flavorful way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. With layers of cheesy goodness, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you serve this up, it will become a favorite in your household!

This recipe is not only delicious but also straightforward to prepare. You can whip it up in no time and enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. Pair it with a fresh salad and some garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Baked Rigatoni comes together in about 65 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy this hearty pasta dish. It’s a surefire hit!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble this dish ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ground beef, marinara sauce, and melting cheese creates a satisfying flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Baked Rigatoni, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. These are staples that you might already have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store:

For the Pasta Bake

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped sweet yellow onion
• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 48 ounces marinara sauce (2 jars (24 ounces each), or 6 cups of homemade sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 6 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 ½ cups)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this Baked Rigatoni Recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Go meatless: Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or provolone for a unique twist.

How to Make Baked Rigatoni Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375° F. Greasing your baking dish beforehand ensures that your pasta bake won’t stick when it’s time to serve. A well-prepared dish makes all the difference!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember not to rinse the pasta after draining; this helps keep the sauce clingy and delicious.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they soften—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 4: Brown the Meat

Add your ground beef into the pan with onions. Crumble it as it cooks until it’s browned all over. Drain excess grease if necessary before adding minced garlic for just 30 seconds until fragrant—this step adds so much flavor.

Step 5: Mix in Marinara Sauce

Stir in your marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about 10 minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Remove from heat and stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted into the mix. Then gently fold in your cooked rigatoni—it’s like giving each piece of pasta a warm hug!

Step 7: Layer with Cheese

Transfer everything into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, followed by the remaining Parmesan cheese and dried oregano for that final touch of yumminess.

Step 8: Bake It Up

Cover your baking dish with foil sprayed with cooking spray on one side (this keeps cheese from sticking). Bake covered for about 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 9: Serve

Let your Baked Rigatoni cool slightly before serving—if you can wait! Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then dig in! Enjoy every cheesy bite surrounded by loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Rigatoni Recipe

Making this delicious baked rigatoni is a breeze, and with these tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality marinara sauce can significantly enhance the flavors of your baked rigatoni, making it taste like a restaurant-quality meal.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the rigatoni will continue to cook in the oven, be sure to boil it for just the minimum time indicated on the package. This prevents mushy pasta and ensures a perfect texture.

• Mix cheeses for depth: Combining different types of cheese, such as mozzarella with provolone or gouda, can add complexity and richness to your dish. Feel free to experiment!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your baked rigatoni to rest for about 5 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare this dish earlier in the day or even the night before. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great time-saver for busy weeknights!

How to Serve Baked Rigatoni Recipe

Serving baked rigatoni is all about presentation and complementing flavors that enhance this hearty dish. Here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Adding a sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only brightens up your dish but also adds a fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and sauce.

• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkling a few red pepper flakes on top can elevate the flavor profile and provide a nice heat balance.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing! Serve warm, crispy garlic bread alongside your baked rigatoni for a comforting touch that everyone loves.

• Caesar salad (without anchovies): A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements the creamy richness of the pasta. Consider using dairy-free dressing if desired.

• Steamed seasonal vegetables: Brightly colored veggies like broccoli or green beans not only add nutrition but also bring an appealing visual contrast to your plate.

• Caprese salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light side that balances out the heartiness of your main dish beautifully.

Now you’re all set to whip up this delightful baked rigatoni recipe! Enjoy sharing this comforting meal with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Rigatoni is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rigatoni to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the baked rigatoni entirely.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, label with the date.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen rigatoni: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as mentioned above. If reheating from frozen, increase baking time to about 35-45 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Baked Rigatoni Recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal due to its shape and ability to hold sauce, you can substitute it with penne or ziti if desired.

How can I make this Baked Rigatoni Recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also use a meat substitute if you prefer!

Is this Baked Rigatoni Recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This Baked Rigatoni is fantastic for meal prepping. You can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

What can I serve with Baked Rigatoni?

Pair your dish with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Baked Rigatoni at home! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a delightful way to gather around the table with family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures makes it truly special. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!