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Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Pasta

Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Pasta for Ultimate Comfort Food Bliss

Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Pasta is a comforting dish filled with layers of flavor that everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner Ideas
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 16 ounces rigatoni pasta This hearty pasta shape holds onto the sauce and cheese beautifully.
Meats
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Adds a spicy, savory kick that perfectly complements the beef.
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Provides a deliciously rich base for the sauce.
Sauce
  • 4 cups marinara sauce Choose your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning This aromatic mix enhances the dish with classic Italian flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Infuses the sauce with a warm, inviting taste.
  • Salt to taste Adjust according to your preference for the ultimate flavor balance.
  • Pepper to taste A little touch adds depth and warmth to the dish.
Cheesy Layer
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese The star of cheesy baked rigatoni, creating that gooey pull everyone loves.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the cheesy experience.
Garnish
  • fresh basil for garnish A sprinkle of fresh basil brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • baking dish
  • Colander
  • spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather your other ingredients.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage and ground beef, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  4. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
  5. Combine the drained rigatoni with the meat sauce mixture, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
  6. Transfer half of the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella on top of the first layer of pasta.
  8. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
  9. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan on top.
  10. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  11. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Properly cook rigatoni until al dente and let the dish rest after baking for cleaner servings.

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