Beef Rigatoni
A hearty and satisfying dish with tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings.
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.