Nothing says comfort like a hearty baked rigatoni with meat sauce. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or impressing your friends with your culinary skills.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Baking the rigatoni with the sauce and cheese creates a deliciously crispy top layer.
- Using a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses offers the perfect melt and flavor.
- The rigatoni pasta holds the sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- This recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. While waiting, dice the onion and mince the garlic to have them ready for the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Add the rigatoni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In the large pot, mix the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce until well combined. If the mixture seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Tips and Tricks
For a smoother sauce, you can blend the crushed tomatoes before adding them to the meat. If you’re short on time, use your favorite jarred marinara sauce instead of making it from scratch. To make this dish ahead, assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and sausage, and use whole wheat rigatoni.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty veggie alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for some heat.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in ricotta or cottage cheese with the pasta before baking for extra creaminess.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rigatoni and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Extra Meaty: Double the amount of ground beef and Italian sausage for a protein-packed meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze baked rigatoni?
Absolutely! This dish freezes beautifully. Cool it completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
What can I serve with baked rigatoni?
This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but a simple green salad or garlic bread makes a great side. For a lighter option, try steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne or ziti would work well as substitutes for rigatoni. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
Summary
This baked rigatoni with meat sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich meat sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
