05/01/2026
Baked Rigatoni Recipe (Serves 6-8)
Ingredients
* 1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage, or mix)
* 1 small onion, diced
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 jar (24 oz / ~700g) marinara sauce (or homemade)
* 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
* 1 tsp Italian seasoning
* Salt & pepper, to taste
* 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional but creamy)
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
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Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
Boil rigatoni in salted water until just al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion → cook until soft (3–4 minutes).
Stir in garlic → cook 1 minute.
Add ground meat → cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Simmer
Stir in marinara, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Let simmer for about 10–15 minutes.
4. Combine
Mix cooked pasta with the sauce.
If using ricotta, dollop it in and gently mix (don’t over-blend—it’s nice in pockets).
5. Assemble
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer pasta to a greased baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Serve
Let sit 5 minutes, then garnish with herbs and serve.
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Tips & Variations
* Swap meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian version
* Add red pepper flakes for a little heat
* Mix in cooked sausage slices for extra flavor
* Use fresh mozzarella for melty, restaurant-style texture.
