Plate of irresistible Beef Rigatoni with rich meat sauce and cheese

Irresistible Beef Rigatoni

BySophie
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef rigatoni is a hearty, satisfying dish that brings comfort to any table. With tender pasta enveloped in a savory meat sauce and gooey cheese, it’s a family favorite that never goes out of style. This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends.

How to Make Beef Rigatoni

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound rigatoni pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Mix the cooked rigatoni into the sauce until well combined.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.

How to Serve Beef Rigatoni

Serve beef rigatoni hot from the oven with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves on top. Pair it with a side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be reheated for leftovers.

How to Store Beef Rigatoni

To store beef rigatoni, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, portion the dish into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will last for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Beef Rigatoni

  • For extra flavor, try adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture.
  • If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Use different types of cheese, like provolone or cheddar, for a unique twist.

Variations

You can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free rigatoni for dietary restrictions.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Combine them and bake when you’re ready to serve.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick.

3. What is a good side dish for beef rigatoni?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with beef rigatoni for a balanced meal.

Beef Rigatoni

A hearty and satisfying dish with tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Meat

  • 1 pound rigatoni pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef Substitute with lentils or vegetables for vegetarian option.

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Cooking the Sauce

  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Mix the cooked rigatoni into the sauce until well combined.

Baking

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving

  • Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Best served hot from the oven with a side salad and garlic bread. For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms.
Keyword Beef Rigatoni, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Pasta Bake

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