Marinara Ground Beef Rigatoni Bake

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
4. 4 Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
5. 5 Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. 6 Combine cooked rigatoni with the beef mixture.
7. 7 Transfer to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. 8 Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. 9 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Oven

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach for extra greens.
• Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for a different flavor.

Substitutions

• Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Substitute marinara sauce with homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad

Nutrition

Tips

• Use whole milk mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• For a make-ahead option, assemble the dish and refrigerate overnight before baking.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake covered at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

FAQ