Hearty Baked Rigatoni in Rich Meat Sauce Topped with Cheesy Goodness

Ingredients:

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the meat sauce. Stir in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 6 servings