Name: Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb rigatoni pasta; Kosher salt (for boiling water); 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup chopped onion; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 4 cups marinara or pasta sauce (jarred or homemade); Black pepper to taste; Kosher salt to taste; 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 6 reviews

Get ready to dive into a comforting classic with my absolute favorite Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe. This hearty, cheesy pasta bake combines perfectly cooked rigatoni with a rich, flavorful ground beef and tomato sauce, layered under bubbly mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel special and leftovers even better the next day. From the first bite to the last, this recipe delivers warmth, zest, and pure satisfaction that’s so easy to make and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls on a white marbled surface. One bowl is filled with uncooked pasta shaped like short tubes, placed at the top left. Next to it, on the right, there is a glass container filled with a thick red tomato sauce. Below the pasta is a white bowl with raw ground meat, showing a rough, red texture. To the right of the meat is another white bowl full of shredded cheese, light yellow in color. A smaller white bowl with finely grated cheese is near the bottom left. Near the center, some fresh green basil leaves are placed next to three whole garlic cloves. At the bottom right, a white onion is sliced in half, showing its layered inside. A knife with a black handle lies next to the onion. Toward the left side is a cheese grater with some grated cheese pieces on and around it. A small white dish with crushed red pepper, dried herbs, and black pepper sits near the basil. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

With ingredients that are straightforward and easy to find, this recipe shines because of the balance between fresh herbs, spices, and cheese that elevate simple pantry staples into a mouthwatering family favorite.

Rigatoni pasta: The ridges and tubes hold sauce beautifully, giving every bite generous flavor.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and sauce, enhancing every element.
Ground beef: Provides the rich and hearty base, bringing savory depth and satisfying texture.
Chopped onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation to the sauce that softens during cooking.
Garlic cloves: Four cloves packed with pungent, fragrant flavor to elevate the sauce.
Fresh basil: Bright and herbaceous, it cuts through richness and adds freshness.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that tie the sauce together with traditional Italian flavors.
Red pepper flakes: Just a touch for subtle heat that livens up the dish.
Marinara or pasta sauce: Either jarred or homemade, it’s the saucy heart of the bake.
Black pepper: Adds warmth and a slight bite to taste.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, stretchy cheesy pulls.
Parmesan or Pecorino cheese: Adds sharpness and a salty finish that complements the meat.

How to Make Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375 °F (190 °C), then grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple prep ensures everything will bake perfectly without sticking, setting you up for success from the start.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the rigatoni until it is just al dente so it retains a bit of firmness. Remember, the pasta will cook more in the oven, so don’t overdo it here. Drain and set aside carefully to avoid mushiness.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces for an even cook. Drain excess grease if needed to avoid heaviness. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, then stir in garlic, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let this fragrant mix cook for a minute or two to boost the flavor.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Pour your marinara or pasta sauce into the skillet with the meat and aromatics. Stir and season with salt and black pepper to your taste. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly and thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large bowl, toss the al dente rigatoni with the meat sauce until every piece is luxuriously coated. This step is key because it distributes those rich flavors thoroughly throughout the dish.

Step 6: Layer the Pasta Bake

Spoon half of the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over this base layer to create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Add the Top Layers

Next, layer the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese, then finish by scattering the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly. This layering promises plenty of melty, cheesy goodness with every forkful.

Step 8: Bake Covered and Then Uncovered

Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. This finishing touch adds beautiful texture and appearance to your baked rigatoni.

Step 9: Rest and Garnish

Let your baked rigatoni rest for about 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This brief pause lets everything settle so the flavors concentrate and the bake holds together better on serving. Feel free to garnish with fresh basil or extra grated cheese for an eye-catching finish.

How to Serve Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe

A white speckled bowl filled with one main layer of short, wide pasta tubes covered in rich red tomato sauce mixed with small pieces of cooked ground meat, topped with shredded white cheese and thin strips of bright green fresh basil leaves. A silver fork rests inside the bowl on the left side, and the bowl is placed on a light brown surface with a beige cloth napkin to the right. In the background, there is a glass of water and a partial view of another bowl with the same pasta dish. The whole scene is set against a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your dish with freshly chopped basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan to add a fresh, aromatic note and tempting appearance. A little drizzle of good olive oil can also make it feel extra special and fragrant.

Side Dishes

This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette, garlic bread to soak up extra sauce, or steamed vegetables for some added freshness and crunch. Each side complements the rich flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving portions in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at dinner parties. You can also layer some fresh herbs between the pasta layers for a pop of color or add roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms inside the bake for extra flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling, transfer leftover baked rigatoni to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It holds its flavor well and you’ll find it reheats beautifully for quick lunches or easy dinners.

Freezing

This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Place the cooled pasta bake in a freezer-safe dish or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to keep the cheesy top moist and melty. Alternatively, microwave portions with a damp paper towel on top to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this baked rigatoni with ground beef recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s ridges hold the sauce beautifully, penne or ziti are great alternatives that also work well for baked pasta dishes.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use sautéed mushrooms and extra vegetables for a hearty, flavorful meat-free version.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish a few hours before baking and keep it in the fridge, then bake it fresh when you’re ready. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining guests.

What kind of marinara sauce should I use?

Both jarred and homemade marinara work great here. Choose a good-quality sauce that you love, or add extra herbs and spices to customize the flavor further.

How spicy is this baked rigatoni with ground beef recipe?

The red pepper flakes add just a hint of heat that livens up the dish without overwhelming the flavors. You can easily adjust or omit the flakes to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe has become one of those go-to dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Rich, satisfying, and so comforting, it’s perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends. Once you try making it, I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite recipes to come back to time and time again!