Baked Rigatoni Recipe: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
This baked rigatoni recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's rich, creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is easily customizable to your liking, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables, meats, or cheeses.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage, or substitute with vegetables for a vegetarian option)
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pasta:
- Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Important: Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Build the Flavor Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Create the Rich Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Assemble the Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix gently but thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Add them to the skillet along with the onions and garlic.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a blend of your favorites.
- Meat Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or lentils for a leaner option or omit entirely for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this baked rigatoni hot, as a comforting and satisfying main course. A simple side salad is the perfect complement.
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This baked rigatoni recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
