Bubbly Baked Rigatoni Casserole! Layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and melty cheese that will make your heart (and stomach) happy.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Layer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread dollops of ricotta cheese on top, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
8. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let cool slightly before serving warm.