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When it comes to comforting, family-friendly meals, few dishes can rival baked rigatoni with meat sauce. This hearty casserole combines the satisfying texture of rigatoni pasta with a rich, flavorful meat sauce, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you're serving a hungry family or hosting a gathering of friends, this dish is sure to bring everyone to the table, eager for a second helping.

Comforting Baked Rigatoni with Meat Sauce

Discover the joy of making baked rigatoni with meat sauce, a comforting dish that brings families together. This recipe combines sturdy rigatoni pasta with a rich homemade meat sauce, featuring flexible ingredient options for customization. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it offers deep flavors from fresh tomatoes, sautéed onions, and aromatic herbs. Top with cheesy goodness for a golden crust, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef (or a meat substitute)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

For the Rigatoni:

12 oz rigatoni pasta

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

    - In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.

      - Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        - Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

          - Mix in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.

            Cook the Rigatoni:

              - While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

                Combine Ingredients:

                  - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

                    - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce and ricotta cheese. Gently stir until well combined.

                      Assemble the Dish:

                        - In a large baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches), pour half of the rigatoni mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella on top. Add the remaining rigatoni and top with the rest of the mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

                          Bake:

                            - Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                              Serve:

                                - Let the baked rigatoni cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 25 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings