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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warm, cheesy embrace of Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Hearty Meat Sauce. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of a robust meat sauce with the creamy goodness of cheese, all enveloped in perfectly baked pasta. It’s a culinary indulgence that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings families together around the dinner table, making it a beloved favorite in many households.

Comforting Baked Rigatoni with Meat Sauce

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Hearty Meat Sauce! Combining perfectly baked rigatoni pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, it transforms simple moments into cherished memories. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and bring warmth to your table with every delicious bite. Cooking has never been so rewarding!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound rigatoni pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 egg, beaten

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Meat Sauce:

        In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

          Stir in the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

            Drain excess fat if necessary, then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

              Mix the Cheese Filling:

                In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

                  Assemble the Dish:

                    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce, mixing until the pasta is well coated.

                      Layer half of the rigatoni and meat sauce mixture in the dish, dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture over it, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining rigatoni and meat sauce, topping with the remaining ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

                        Bake:

                          Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                            Garnish and Serve:

                              Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings