Name: Easy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound rigatoni pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; ½ cup ricotta cheese; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely must try this Easy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe. Combining tender rigatoni pasta with savory ground beef and a rich, homemade marinara sauce, this baked pasta casserole brings together comfort and flavor in a way that’s simply irresistible. The gooey melted cheese bubbling on top seals the deal, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows bowls and small dishes arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing different ingredients for cooking. There is a large white bowl filled with yellow cooked pasta tubes, and another large white bowl with bright red tomato sauce. Smaller white bowls hold finely chopped white onions, minced garlic pieces, cooked ground meat, grated pale yellow cheese, and a light yellow liquid, likely oil. There are also tiny white bowls with black pepper, salt, and dried green herbs. The arrangement is neat and the colors range from red, yellow, and white to brown and green, creating a colorful and fresh look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s truly amazing about this recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish shine. From al dente pasta that holds every bit of sauce perfectly, to the juicy ground beef and creamy cheeses that bring richness and depth, every component matters.

1 pound rigatoni pasta: The perfect tubular pasta to capture that luscious sauce inside each bite.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness while preventing sticking when cooking the beef.
1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory umami flavor—feel free to swap for ground turkey or sausage if preferred.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aroma when sautéed, balancing the richness of the meat.
3 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of fragrant zest that livens up the sauce beautifully.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lends that classic Italian flair without extra effort.
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors naturally.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Brings mild heat and depth to the dish.
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: The tomato-based heart of the casserole—choose your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch.
½ cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy texture and helps bind everything together.
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy perfection on top.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty finish that complements the mozzarella.
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish: Brightens and freshens every forkful with a pop of green.

How to Make Easy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until it’s perfectly al dente—meaning it’s tender yet still has a slight bite. This texture is key because it will continue to cook a little in the oven, absorbing flavors without becoming mushy. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the flavorful meat sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula so it cooks evenly. Browning the meat properly is essential because it creates deep, savory notes that make this dish so satisfying. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. The onion and garlic mixture forms a fragrant base that lifts the entire dish with their sweet and savory aromas.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce and bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to meld all those wonderful flavors from the beef, herbs, and aromatics into a harmonious sauce. This simmering step allows the sauce to thicken slightly, ensuring it clings beautifully to every piece of pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Meat Sauce, and Ricotta

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce. Then, dollop and mix in the ricotta cheese which adds a creamy texture that helps all the components bind together without heaviness. Mixing it all here ensures every bite is bursting with balanced flavor and luscious creaminess.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top to create that irresistible golden crust. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then uncover and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and perfectly golden. This step transforms the dish into a warm, comforting casserole with melty cheese that’s simply magical.

How to Serve Easy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe

The image shows a white rectangular dish filled with layers of lasagna. The bottom layer is rich, dark red sauce mixed with browned ground meat. Above that, there is a soft golden-baked pasta layer with melted cheese that is bubbling and slightly browned on top. There is another thick layer of meat sauce with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese melting on top. A silver spoon held by a woman's hand lifts up a portion, showing gooey melted cheese stretching from the dish. In the background, a white bowl contains a green salad with light-colored croutons. The surface is white marble. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing with fresh basil or parsley not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also a refreshing herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. Sprinkle it generously just before serving so each forkful is balanced and bright.

Side Dishes

This baked rigatoni is a star in itself but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed with tangy vinaigrettes or a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables also make an excellent complement, adding variety and extra nutrients to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family gathering or dinner party, serve the baked rigatoni right from the dish to encourage sharing and comfort. Alternatively, you can portion it into mini ramekins for individual servings, which makes the presentation feel a bit more special. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs on each plate enhances the warmth and appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Easy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe, simply cover any leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next meal just as delicious.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully, whether you freeze it before baking or after. For best results, assemble the pasta casserole and cover it tightly before popping it into the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a little extra time if needed.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, reheat the portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again—about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven helps maintain the casserole’s wonderful texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that still delivers plenty of flavor. Just be sure to brown it well and season it properly to bring out its best.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many brands now offer varieties that hold up well in baked dishes, so your casserole will be just as comforting and delicious.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

Is it possible to add some heat to this recipe?

Definitely! Stir in some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce during cooking for a gentle kick of heat that adds complexity without overpowering the other flavors.

What’s the best way to get a bubbly, golden top?

Baking covered initially allows the pasta to cook through without drying out. Removing the foil in the last 10-15 minutes encourages the cheese to brown beautifully and bubble up, creating that sought-after cheesy crust.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely comforting about a big pan of Easy Baked Rigatoni with Ground Beef Recipe. It brings together simple ingredients into a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that feels special without demanding a lot of time or effort. Whether you’re feeding a family, friends, or just treating yourself, this baked rigatoni will quickly become a beloved go-to recipe in your kitchen. So grab your apron and dig in—you’re in for a deliciously satisfying experience!