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Cheesy baked rigatoni topped with melted cheese and herbs

Cheesy Baked Rigatoni

This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni features hearty rigatoni and a savory beefy marinara sauce, folded with creamy ricotta and melting mozzarella, making it the perfect all-in-one comfort meal for families.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 16 oz rigatoni pasta the ridges and tubes hold sauce and cheese beautifully
  • 1 lb ground beef use lean or regular depending on preference
  • 1 chopped onion sweetens and builds the sauce’s base
  • 1/2 tsp salt to season the meat and pasta water (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp pepper freshly ground if possible
  • 1 tsp garlic powder for depth and convenience
  • 1 tsp paprika adds warmth and color
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning the classic herb blend (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional for a bit of heat
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic fresh garlic gives a bright punch
  • 2 24 oz jars marinara sauce use a good-quality jarred sauce or homemade
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream softens the acidity and makes the sauce luscious
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese provides creamy pockets throughout
  • 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese the melty top layer everyone fights for
  • Dried parsley for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese for serving, freshly grated tastes best

Method
 

Preheat and Prep
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little oil or nonstick spray.
Cook the Rigatoni
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions but stop 1–2 minutes before the recommended time so the pasta is al dente. Drain well.
Brown the Ground Beef and Onions
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add ground beef and chopped onion along with seasoning. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is softened—about 6 to 8 minutes.
Drain and Finish the Sauce
  1. Drain excess grease and return skillet to the stove. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in marinara sauce and heavy cream; simmer for 3–5 minutes.
Layer the Pasta, Sauce, and Ricotta
  1. Spoon half of the cooked pasta into the baking dish and spread out. Pour half of the meat sauce over the pasta and add dollops of ricotta cheese.
Add the Final Layers
  1. Top with the remaining pasta and the rest of the meat sauce, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
  1. Bake for about 25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes for a browner crust.
Rest, Garnish, and Serve
  1. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with Parmesan.

Notes

Taste as you go and make this dish ahead by assembling and refrigerating. Common mistakes include overcooking pasta or not draining grease. Serve with a simple salad and garlic bread.