Cheesy Beef Rigatoni Comfort Food (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta
01 -
450 g rigatoni pasta
→ Beef Mixture
02 -
450 g ground beef
03 -
1 small onion, diced
04 -
3 garlic cloves, minced
05 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
06 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 -
Salt, to taste
08 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ Sauce & Cheese
09 -
480 ml marinara sauce
10 -
250 g ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
11 -
200 g shredded mozzarella cheese
12 -
100 g shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
13 -
25 g grated Parmesan cheese
→ Garnish
14 -
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 2–3 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
03 -
Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until fully browned.
04 -
Pour in marinara sauce. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes. Remove skillet from heat.
05 -
In a large mixing bowl or in the pot, toss cooked rigatoni with beef mixture and ricotta cheese if using. Mix until evenly coated.
06 -
Preheat oven to 190°C. Grease a 33 x 23 cm baking dish. Spread half the pasta mixture evenly in the dish, then sprinkle with half the mozzarella and cheddar. Add the remaining pasta mixture and cover with the rest of the shredded cheeses. Finish with Parmesan on top.
07 -
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden.
08 -
Allow to cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the beef for added vegetables.
02 -
Mix a splash of heavy cream into the sauce for a richer texture.
03 -
Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier flavor profile.
04 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.