Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

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This Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake is the ultimate cozy dinner. It layers tender pasta with savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and a golden, bubbling blanket of cheese. The kind of dish that gathers everyone around the table with anticipation, it’s a hearty, family-style favorite that works equally well for busy weeknights or weekend comfort meals.

With its rich tomato-meat sauce and melted mozzarella on top, this dish delivers bold flavor in every bite. It’s a satisfying and indulgent meal that tastes even better as leftovers, making it a great make-ahead option.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

• Packed with bold, comforting flavors
• Easily customizable with veggies or spice
• Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd
• Melty cheese lovers’ dream
• Freezer-friendly and reheats beautifully

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Bake?

Rigatoni is perfect because its ridges hold onto the sauce and cheese so well. But you can substitute with penne or ziti in a pinch. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy during baking.

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Ingredients for the Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

• Rigatoni pasta: Holds sauce well thanks to its ridges and sturdy shape.
• Ground beef (1 lb): Adds hearty, savory protein and rich flavor.
• Yellow onion (1, diced): Builds depth and sweetness in the meat sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for boosting aroma and flavor.
• Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz): Forms the base of the rich marinara-style sauce.
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Deepens the tomato flavor.
• Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): Brings classic herb flavor to the sauce.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• Mozzarella cheese (3 cups shredded): Melts into a gooey, golden topping.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup grated): Adds sharp, salty depth.
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A pop of green freshness.

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How To Make the Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of rigatoni and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes), then add the minced garlic and cook 1 more minute.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to deepen in flavor.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl or directly in your baking dish, toss the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce until well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the pasta mixture, then sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan on top. Repeat with the remaining pasta and top with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden spots. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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Serving and Storing the Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

This cheesy bake yields 8 hearty portions, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping your week. Serve it warm from the oven for maximum melty goodness.

To store leftovers, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the full tray in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months.

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What to Serve With Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is ideal for scooping up extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crunchy Caesar salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Think roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful side.

Antipasto Platter

Include olives, cured meats, and marinated veggies to start your meal.

Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Light and vibrant, bruschetta adds contrast and freshness【6†source】.

Sauteed Green Beans

Quick and simple, they pair well with cheesy baked pasta.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Bring even more savory bites to the table【6†source】.

Tiramisu Cups

Finish your meal with a classic creamy dessert【6†source】.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish fully, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely. Try provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavor profiles.

How do I freeze leftovers?
Portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes! Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini when sautéing the onions.

Is this spicy?
Not as written. But feel free to add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you like a kick.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch up the cheese or add veggies? Maybe you spiced it up? I love seeing how others make these meals their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s make dinner better together.

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Conclusion

This Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake is everything comfort food should be: warm, cheesy, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a group or freezing portions for later, it’s a reliable dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Looking for more savory dinner ideas like this one? Be sure to check out our recipes for Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, and Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Cajun Beef【6†source】.

For more comfort food recipes and creative ideas, follow along on Meals We Share.

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