Description

Ready for the ultimate comfort food? This Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake delivers cheesy, meaty, saucy goodness all in one dish. Perfectly al dente rigatoni is tossed in a rich beef marinara sauce, layered with melty mozzarella and Parmesan, then baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re after a quick dinner idea, a hearty meal prep solution, or a cozy dish to share with family and friends, this easy recipe brings satisfying flavor and crave-worthy texture to the table. Ideal for anyone seeking dinner ideas, food ideas, or an easy dinner recipe that’s both wholesome and indulgent.

Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups marinara sauce

1 tsp Italian seasoning

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Boil rigatoni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened.

3. Add ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.

4. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Toss cooked pasta with the meat sauce until evenly coated.

6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

7. In a greased baking dish, layer half the pasta mixture, then half the mozzarella and Parmesan.

8. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and cheese.

9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.

10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use whole wheat or gluten-free rigatoni if needed—just cook it al dente to avoid over-softening in the oven.

Letting the bake rest before serving helps it set and enhances the flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 generous portion
Calories: 620
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 760mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: easy dinner, baked pasta, beef rigatoni, comfort food, casserole