Description

If you’re craving a cozy, hearty, and easy dinner idea, this Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake is just what you need. It’s the ultimate comfort food packed with tender rigatoni pasta, a rich and savory beef marinara sauce, and layers of perfectly melted cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a quick meal prep solution, this dish fits right into your favorite dinner ideas, healthy snack alternatives, and easy recipe rotations. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that freezes well and reheats like a dream!

Ingredients

16 oz rigatoni pasta

1 lb ground beef

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

24 oz marinara sauce

2 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles.

3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes more.

4. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes on low heat.

5. Combine the cooked rigatoni with most of the sauce in a large bowl, reserving some sauce for layering. Mix well.

6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of reserved sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

7. Add half the pasta, then a layer of mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan. Repeat with the rest of the pasta and cheese.

8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

9. Let the bake rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and flavor.

Undercook pasta by 2 minutes to avoid mushiness.

Let the bake rest before serving to allow it to set for cleaner slices.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 1/6 of the dish)
Calories: 620
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 760mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 90mg