Go Back

Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Beef

This comforting dish features rigatoni pasta baked with ground beef, sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce, delivering warm, inviting flavors that the whole family will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For a rich and smooth base that enhances flavors.
  • 1 cup white onion, chopped Adds sweetness and aroma, creating a flavorful base.
  • 13 oz beef sausage, sliced Juicy bites that infuse the dish with savory richness.
  • 1 lb ground beef The star protein that provides heartiness and depth of flavor.
  • 2 tbsp minced garlic Aromatic and robust, it enhances the overall profile.
  • 1 tsp pink sea salt To taste, providing a subtle yet essential seasoning.
  • 1 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided Adds a warming spice and depth.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Enhances the garlic flavor without overwhelming.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme, divided Infuses a fragrant herb aroma throughout the dish.
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes For just a hint of delightful heat.
  • 15 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes Brings a smoky sweetness that is simply irresistible.
  • 8 oz tomato sauce A rich base that ties all the ingredients together.
  • 1 1/2 tbsp sugar Balances the acidity of tomatoes with a touch of sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped Adds vibrant color and fresh flavor.
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped Earthy and aromatic, giving your dish remarkable depth.
For the pasta
  • 1 lb rigatoni pasta The perfect vessel to hold all the delicious sauce and cheese.
For the cheese
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully, offering that classic gooey texture.
  • 4 cups 4-cheese pizzeria cheese A medley of creamy cheeses that elevates your baked dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Add olive oil to a large cooking pan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
  2. Introduce the sliced beef sausage to the pan and cook for an additional five minutes.
  3. Add ground beef, minced garlic, pink sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the beef is browned.
  4. Incorporate the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, rosemary, thyme, and remaining black pepper. Stir and simmer on medium-low for about 10 minutes.
  5. Boil rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
  6. Pour the prepared pasta sauce over rigatoni and gently fold together until coated.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with mozzarella, and then layer with the 4-cheese pizzeria cheese.
  2. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

For a creamy version, mix in ricotta cheese with the sauce. To make it vegetarian, substitute beef with lentils or sautéed vegetables. Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.