Italian Rigatoni Bake

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There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bubbling plate of Italian Rigatoni Bake. This dish wraps all the best parts of Italian cooking into one meal: hearty ground beef, tender pasta, a garlicky tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella. It’s the ultimate family-style comfort food, ideal for chilly nights, potlucks, or simply when you need a generous helping of cozy.

The balance between savory and cheesy makes this rigatoni bake a weeknight winner. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and reheats beautifully. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe has your back.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rigatoni is the star here for good reason. Its ridged, tube-like shape captures the rich meat sauce and gooey cheese, giving each bite the perfect ratio of flavor and texture. You can substitute with penne or ziti if needed, but rigatoni offers the best structure and sauce hold.

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Ingredients for the Italian Rigatoni Bake

• Rigatoni pasta – The sturdy shape soaks up sauce and holds cheese perfectly.
• Ground beef – Adds hearty, protein-rich substance to the bake.
• Yellow onion – Sweetens and deepens the flavor base.
• Garlic cloves – Essential for Italian flair.
• Crushed tomatoes – Creates a rich, tangy tomato sauce.
• Tomato paste – Boosts the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Italian seasoning – Blends herbs like oregano and basil into every bite.
• Salt and black pepper – For balance and seasoning.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully into a gooey topping.
• Fresh parsley – A bright, fresh garnish.

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How To Make the Italian Rigatoni Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Combine and Layer

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Mix the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Pour half into a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella, add the remaining pasta, and top with more mozzarella.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Serving and Storing Italian Rigatoni Bake

This dish is best served hot from the oven with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a crisp green salad.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout. This meal also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw and bake when ready to enjoy.

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What to Serve With Italian Rigatoni Bake?

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with buttery, toasted garlic bread to mop up every bit of sauce.

Caesar Salad

A fresh Caesar salad offers cool crunch to balance the warm richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted with olive oil and sea salt, it adds a healthy, slightly crisp side.

Antipasto Skewers

Add an Italian-inspired appetizer with olives, mozzarella balls, salami, and cherry tomatoes.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella with balsamic glaze bring a bright touch.

Red Wine

A medium-bodied Italian red like Chianti complements the flavors beautifully.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Savory and satisfying, they make a delicious complement.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Italian Rigatoni Bake hit the spot, you might also fall in love with these savory favorites:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan brings creaminess and bold flavor.
• Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta for an ultra-cheesy, kid-friendly classic.
• Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet offers comfort with a veggie-packed twist.
• One Pan Cajun Honey Butter Steak Pasta Wonder if you crave bold spices.
• Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni delivers rich creaminess with a hint of heat.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this comforting recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready when you’re craving a hearty bake again.

Tried it with extra herbs or a different cheese? Tell me how you made it yours—I’d love to hear about your kitchen twist in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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