Name: Delicious Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound rigatoni pasta; 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

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Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella is a culinary embrace that warms the heart. Layers of tender rigatoni pasta, rich beef ragu sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese come together in this irresistibly comforting dish. Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this baked pasta recipe is bound to be a hit. The combination of savory meat sauce and gooey cheese creates a taste sensation that lingers long after the last bite. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with

This delightful dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are several reasons to love it:

Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings.
Easy to Make: Learn how to make baked rigatoni quickly with simple steps.
Feeding a Crowd: Perfect for gatherings, serving up to 6 people.
Flavorful Layers: The layers of rigatoni pasta filled with beef and cheese make every bite heavenly.
Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe with vegetarian stuffed rigatoni ideas or creamy baked rigatoni variations.
Make-Ahead Option: It can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy nights.

Ingredients for Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with

Gather these items:

1 pound rigatoni pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

How to Make Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
Step 5: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the beef ragu sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 6: In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked rigatoni. Top with half of the beef ragu sauce, and then half of the mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Step 10: Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh herbs for a more robust flavor.
Don’t overcook the rigatoni; it should be al dente.
Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the layers set.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with

Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Pair with garlic bread for a comforting Italian feast.
Top with extra cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This dish can also be prepared ahead of time, making it an easy baked rigatoni dish for busy days!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Ensure your beef ragu sauce is well-seasoned and allow the cheese to melt perfectly for that gooey delight!

Can I make Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and then bake when ready to serve. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with?

To avoid mushy pasta, cook rigatoni just to al dente. Also, be careful not to overcook during baking; you want that cheese to be perfectly melted, not browned.

Variations of Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with You Can Try

Explore these exciting variations:

Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with Spinach: Add sautéed spinach for a nutritious twist.
Baked Rigatoni with Sausage: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Stuffed Rigatoni Ideas: Replace meat with mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option.

Delicious Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu - Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with - main visual representation

For more delicious pasta recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making baked mac and cheese for a cheesy delight!

Delicious Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu - Baked Rigatoni Stuffed with - additional detail

For more tips on making the perfect pasta, consider reading about creamy tomato soup that pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes!