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If you're craving a hearty, comforting meal, this Baked Rigatoni Casserole is your go-to dish. Packed with ground beef, marinara sauce, and loads of cheese, it's a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole combines rich flavors and a gooey, cheesy top that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let's dive into this deliciousness!
The name of the recipe: Baked Rigatoni Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and minced garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni pasta with the sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
What You Will Need
Read more: Baked Rigatoni with Ricotta Casserole Recipe
What you will need to make baked rigatoni casserole
- Rigatoni pasta: Holds sauce well, providing a hearty base for the casserole with its tube shape and ridges.
- Ground beef: Adds rich, savory flavor and protein, making the dish more filling and satisfying.
- Marinara sauce: Brings tangy, tomato goodness that ties all the ingredients together with its robust flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that enhances the overall texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella and adds depth.
- Dried oregano: Infuses the dish with a warm, slightly bitter taste that balances the sweetness of the marinara.
- Dried basil: Provides a sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the tomato sauce and other herbs.
- Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Tools and Instruments Required
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta and browning the ground beef.
- Colander: Drains the cooked pasta efficiently.
- Mixing bowl: Combines the pasta with the sauce mixture evenly.
- Baking dish: Holds the layered pasta and cheese for baking.
- Wooden spoon: Stirs the sauce and pasta mixture thoroughly.
- Oven: Bakes the casserole to melt the cheese and blend flavors.
Baked Rigatoni Casserole Recipe
A hearty and delicious baked rigatoni casserole that's perfect for family dinners.
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Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Dish
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
Read more: No Bake Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and minced garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni pasta with the sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes:
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Nutrition value:
Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg
Read more: Baked Pasta Casserole Recipe
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Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the casserole up to the baking step.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble the casserole but do not bake.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if needed.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce while it simmers. It gives the casserole a rich, robust taste that elevates the entire dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
What other cheeses can I use?
Try cheddar, provolone, or gouda for different flavors.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
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