Cheesy Beef Rigatoni
Cheesy Beef Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food that combines al dente rigatoni pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, enveloping you in warmth with every bite. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about five minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and cream cheese until well combined; let simmer on low heat for five minutes.
- Fold cooked rigatoni into the meat-sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or add vegetables like spinach or zucchini. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.