Go Back

The Best Baked Rigatoni

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese shredded
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 8 oz ricotta
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for topping
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Set aside.
  2. Boil the pasta: Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well.
  3. Mix the ricotta layer: In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, egg, garlic salt, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss this mixture with the cooked pasta until coated.
  4. Assemble: In a greased casserole dish, spread half of the pasta mixture, then top with half the beef sauce and half of the mozzarella and Gruyère. Repeat layers and finish with plenty of cheese on top.
  5. Bake: Bake uncovered at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  6. Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm with garlic bread and a side salad.