Cheesy Beef Rigatoni

Who doesn’t love a cozy, cheesy dish to warm the heart? Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheesy Beef Rigatoni, a delightful combination that brings together pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese all in one delicious casserole. This Cheesy Beef Pasta is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a comforting meal when you just need that extra bit of warmth. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a comforting masterpiece together.

Cheesy Beef Rigatoni stands out for its rich flavors and creamy texture. It’s a dish that not only pleases the taste buds but is also easy to whip up on busy weeknights. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as you prepare this hearty casserole. Plus, it’s so versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (swap for ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta for added creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce mixture, cottage cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 4:

Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, creating that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 5:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

This Cheesy Beef Rigatoni dish serves 6-8 people and packs a protein punch with the ground beef and cheese. Each serving is rich in calcium thanks to the dairy, and it’s balanced by the carbs from the pasta. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for those long days when you just want to enjoy a hearty meal.

Healthier Alternatives

If you want to make this dish lighter, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey. You can also opt for whole-grain rigatoni to add more fiber. For the cheese, try using reduced-fat versions that will still melt beautifully without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Cheesy Beef Rigatoni with a fresh garden salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes will add a delightful kick.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Remember, it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. Also, be sure to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to serve.

Chef’s Notes

• If you have picky eaters at home, you can sneak in finely chopped veggies like spinach or bell peppers into the meat sauce.
• This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• For leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or oven; it’s just as delicious the next day.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Rigatoni?
  A1: Yes, it freezes well. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake until heated through.
• Q2: What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
  A2: You can use any favorite pasta sauce, like Alfredo or a homemade tomato sauce, to mix things up.
• Q3: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
  A3: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or cooked mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

Final Thoughts:
This Cheesy Beef Rigatoni is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring family and friends together around the table. It’s comfort food at its finest. If you’re looking for more cheesy goodness, don’t forget to check out my Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole or my Cheesy Penne Pasta Recipe. They’re guaranteed to add warmth and joy to your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!

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