Ultimate Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners

This Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe combines savory meat sauce and gooey cheese, creating a comforting dish perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Cooling Time 5

Total Time 1 5

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds moisture and richness to the sauce; substitute with any cooking oil.
1 pound Ground Beef 90% lean suggested for less grease.
1 pound Mild Italian Sausage Enhances flavor; can be swapped with spicy sausage.
1 medium Onion Finely chopped for even cooking.
4 cloves Garlic Fresh preferred, but garlic powder can substitute.

For the Sauce

2 cups Marinara Sauce Choosing a high-quality brand will yield the best results.
1 cup Tomato Sauce Can be replaced with diced tomatoes for a textured twist.

For the Pasta

1 pound Rigatoni Pasta Use penne if rigatoni is unavailable.

For the Topping

2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Fresh mozzarella is ideal.
2 tablespoons Parsley Used for garnish; can swap with basil.

For Baking

1 spray Cooking Spray Prevents sticking; use any non-stick spray.

Equipment

9"x13" baking dish
Large Skillet
pot for boiling pasta

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9"x13" pan with cooking spray.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and cook the ground beef and mild Italian sausage until browned.
Add finely chopped onions and cook until translucent, then stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Pour in the marinara and tomato sauce; simmer and cook for about 5 minutes.
Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and toss with the sauce.
Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Shredding fresh mozzarella yourself ensures better melting and flavor. Preparing your dish in advance is a game-changer!

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