Baked Rigatoni is a delicious pasta dish that is perfect for dinner. It is made by baking rigatoni pasta with a tomato-based sauce and cheese. This dish is easy to make and is a great way to feed a crowd. You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it in the oven when you are ready to serve.
With its cheesy and flavorful taste, Baked Rigatoni is sure to become a family favorite. Follow this recipe to learn how to make it at home.
Why This Recipe Works
This baked rigatoni recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it's a simple and straightforward recipe that doesn't require any special skills or equipment. Second, it's a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking by using different types of pasta, sauce, and cheese. Finally, it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love, especially kids who tend to be picky eaters.
The combination of tender pasta, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese makes this dish both comforting and satisfying. The ground beef adds protein and flavor to the dish, while the cheese creates a deliciously gooey and cheesy topping. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy dinner or a meal to impress your guests, this baked rigatoni recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
Rigatoni - a tube-shaped pasta perfect for holding sauce; substitute with penne or ziti if needed.
Marinara sauce - adds rich tomato flavor; use store-bought or homemade.
Mozzarella cheese - creates a gooey, melty texture; substitute with provolone or fontina if desired.
Ricotta cheese - adds creaminess; cottage cheese can be used as an alternative.
Parmesan cheese - provides a nutty, savory taste; replace with pecorino romano or asiago if necessary.
Tips
- Cook pasta until just before al dente to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Mix in additional ingredients, like veggies or cooked sausage, for extra variety.
- Let the baked rigatoni rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Serve
This baked rigatoni can be served as a standalone meal or alongside a simple salad and crusty bread. It's a versatile dish that's perfect for dinner parties, potlucks, or family meals.
- Serve with a green salad and balsamic vinaigrette for a light, balanced meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for an extra comforting touch.
- Offer a side of roasted vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for added nutrition and color.
Similar Recipes
Baked Rigatoni
Ingredients
- 1 pound rigatoni
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook rigatoni in a large pot of boiling salted water until just before al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rigatoni, marinara sauce, half the mozzarella cheese, and ricotta cheese. Mix well.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Cook pasta until just before al dente to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Mix in additional ingredients, like veggies or cooked sausage, for extra variety.
- Let the baked rigatoni rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.