Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

This Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe is a hearty and comforting dish layered with rich tomato sauce, savory ground meat, and gooey melted cheese. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week. With a crispy, golden top and a soft, saucy center, this baked pasta is everything comfort food should be.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. It brings together tender rigatoni, flavorful meat sauce, and layers of creamy cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re serving a large group or craving leftovers for the next day, this recipe is dependable, versatile, and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins or dietary needs.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rigatoni pasta
• Ground beef or Italian sausage
• Onion
• Garlic
• Marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Olive oil
• Ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil (optional)

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rigatoni pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and garlic until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with meat sauce and half the mozzarella cheese.
7. Spread a layer of pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with spoonfuls of ricotta and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Cheesy: Add more cheese layers or mix in provolone or fontina.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rigatoni pasta and double-check sauce ingredients.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip ricotta or use tofu ricotta.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil, or microwave individual servings until heated through.
To freeze, let the baked rigatoni cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make baked rigatoni ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Do I have to cook the pasta before baking?

Yes, the pasta should be cooked al dente first to ensure the texture stays perfect after baking.

Can I use jarred sauce?

Absolutely. A good-quality store-bought marinara sauce works well and saves time.

What’s the best cheese for baked pasta?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but you can add provolone, fontina, or even cheddar for extra flavor.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese is a good substitute for ricotta and adds extra protein.

How do I keep baked pasta from drying out?

Make sure there’s enough sauce mixed in and cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking if needed.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well either before or after baking. Just cool completely and wrap tightly.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini are all great additions.

What protein can I use besides beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives all work well.

How long should I let it rest after baking?

Let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the layers to set and make it easier to serve.

Conclusion

This Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe is a go-to classic that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. With its gooey cheese, hearty sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a guaranteed hit for any dinner table. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for leftovers, this dish belongs in your regular meal rotation.

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