RecipeCastle

Delicious Rigatoni with Ground Beef and Cheese

Delicious Rigatoni with Ground Beef and Cheese

Ingredients

  • 8 ozrigatoni pasta: This is the star of the dish (providing the structure and base. Choose quality pasta for better texture.)
  • 1 lbground beef: The primary protein source that gives this dish its satisfying heartiness. Opt for lean ground beef to keep your meal healthier.
  • 1jar (24 oz marinara sauce: A rich and flavorful sauce that brings everything together. Homemade or store-bought can work—just ensure it’s of good quality.)
  • 1/2 cupdiced onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.
  • 2 clovesgarlic (minced: Enhances the flavor with a fragrant punch.)
  • 1 tspItalian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the pasta beautifully.
  • —Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning (elevating the dish’s overall flavor.)
  • 1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that gooey (melt-in-your-mouth texture that is quintessential for any pasta bake.)
  • 1/4 cupgrated Parmesan cheese: Adds a touch of nuttiness and sharpness to the overall flavor.
  • 1 tbspolive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables (this oil adds richness and smoothness.)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook Rigatoni: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Beef Sauce: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of diced onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until translucent. Then, add in 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Next, add 1 lb of ground beef, seasoning with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.

  3. 3

    Combine with Sauce: Once the beef is nicely browned, pour in 1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce. Stir to mix well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  4. 4

    Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven broiler if you’re using it. In a large baking dish, mix the cooked rigatoni with the beef sauce until well combined.

  5. 5

    Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the mixture. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, being careful to watch closely so it doesn't burn.

  6. 6

    Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly, then plate and enjoy your delicious rigatoni while it's hot!