Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of beef, cheese, and pasta in one delicious casserole. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a satisfying meal that will please a crowd. The layers of tender beef, al dente rigatoni pasta, gooey melted cheese, and savory tomato sauce come together to create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just starting in the kitchen, this Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this delicious dish!

Ingredients

For this Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1 pound rigatoni pasta

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 can (24 oz) of tomato sauce

– 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes

– 1 small onion, diced

– 2 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Follow these steps to make the Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

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

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, and cook until softened.

4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.

5. Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.

6. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked rigatoni pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers.

7. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Variations

There are endless ways to customize your Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

– Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.

– Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of this dish.

– Mix in some cooked spinach or kale for a pop of color and added vitamins.

– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or fontina, for a unique twist.

Tips

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake:

– Make sure to salt your pasta water generously for flavorful pasta.

– Don’t overcook the pasta since it will continue to cook in the oven.

– Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

– Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for a burst of freshness.

Conclusion

Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake is a classic comfort food dish that is easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. With layers of savory beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe is a winner every time. Try it out and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake!

FAQs

Q: Can I make Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if cooking from cold.

Q: Can I freeze Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake?

A: Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What side dishes pair well with Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake?

A: A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are great accompaniments to this cheesy pasta bake.