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Cheesy Beef Rigatoni Bake

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This Cheesy Beef Rigatoni Bake is the ultimate comfort food with tender rigatoni pasta, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a melty cheese topping. A perfect family-friendly dinner that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Simmer the sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  • Assemble the bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni pasta and beef sauce. If using ricotta, mix it in at this stage.
  • Layer the cheese: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  • Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley

Notes

  • You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
  • Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce.
  • For extra cheesiness, top with more mozzarella before baking.

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/cheesy-beef-rigatoni-bake/