Baked rigatoni is one of those dishes that never fails to impress, whether you're cooking for a family dinner or hosting a large gathering. This hearty, easy-to-make recipe is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It's a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
The appeal of baked rigatoni lies in its simplicity and the rich flavors it offers. The combination of tender rigatoni pasta, a flavorful meat sauce, and a generous topping of melted cheese is a winning formula that satisfies even the heartiest of appetites. Plus, it's an excellent option for feeding large groups, as it can be easily scaled up or down depending on your needs.
If you're a fan of pasta dishes, you know how diverse and delightful they can be. From Cajun shrimp pasta to baked tortellini, there's a pasta recipe for every occasion. Baked rigatoni stands out, however, due to its ease of preparation and the comforting, homemade feel it brings to the table.
For the Sauce
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
- 8-ounce can tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 16 ounces rigatoni pasta (cooked according to package directions)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Cooking spray
Step 1: Cook the Meat and Onion
To start, you'll need to cook the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly. Once the meat is browned, add the finely chopped onion to the pan and cook until it is softened. This process should take about 10 minutes, and it's crucial to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Sauces
After the onion is softened, add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become bitter. Next, add the marinara and tomato sauces to the pan. Stir well to combine, and let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes. This step is essential for developing the rich flavor of the sauce.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
While the sauce is simmering, cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Al dente pasta retains a bit of bite, which is perfect for baked rigatoni as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. This water can be added to the sauce if it becomes too thick. Toss the cooked rigatoni pasta in the meat sauce, ensuring that each noodle is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the right consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top the pasta with shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with a lightly greased piece of foil and bake for 20 minutes. This step helps the pasta heat through and the cheese to start melting. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the baked rigatoni from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle the top with chopped parsley for a fresh and colorful garnish. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve without it falling apart.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Rigatoni
One of the most important tips for achieving the perfect baked rigatoni is to shred your own mozzarella cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent the cheese from melting as smoothly. Shredding your own cheese ensures you get that creamy, golden-brown top that everyone loves.
Another tip is to use high-quality marinara sauce. While jarred marinara is convenient, making your own homemade marinara sauce can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly. If you don't have the time, however, a good quality jarred sauce will still yield delicious results.
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