Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef

A warm, cheesy nest of rigatoni bubbling in marinara sauce is the kind of comforting dish that invites you to the table. This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef comes together in under an hour and is a family favorite for its heartiness and flavor. The combination of rich meat sauce and gooey melted cheese makes it a surefire crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days, making it an ideal option for gatherings or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The layers of cheese create a delightful stretch with every bite.
• Rigatoni holds sauce well, ensuring every mouthful is flavorful.
• It’s a one-dish meal, simplifying cleanup afterward.
• The recipe is easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to start making a delicious baked dish.

For the Pasta

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

For the Cheese Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey or chicken for beef
• Whole wheat rigatoni for a healthier option
• Homemade sauce for store-bought marinara
• Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan option

How to Make It

Here’s how to create this savory pasta dish.

1. Preheat

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook Pasta

Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.

4. Brown Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.

5. Make Sauce

Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

6. Combine Ingredients

Combine the cooked rigatoni and the meat sauce mixture in a large baking dish.

7. Add Cheese

Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

8. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Cool Slightly

Let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for meal prep.
Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor.
• Don’t skip cooling slightly before serving to prevent burns.
• Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes if cheese browns too quickly.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple mixed green salad for freshness.
• Pair with garlic bread for a complete Italian experience.
• Enjoy it with a glass of red wine for an adult dinner.