Name: Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 chopped onion; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 2 (24 oz) jars marinara sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese; 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese; Dried parsley for garnish; Parmesan cheese for topping

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If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just want a meal that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate—and that’s exactly what this Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe delivers. It’s a classic comfort dish that brings together hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly baked pasta in one irresistible casserole. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe hits all the right notes.

I remember the first time I made this Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe during a chilly weekend, and it instantly became my go-to. The blend of spices with the creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella is pure magic. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, and I promise I’ll walk you through every step so you can nail it just like I did.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe works together to build layers of flavor and texture that make it so satisfying. When picking ingredients, fresh garlic and good-quality marinara really make a difference—you can spot the difference once it’s baked!

Rigatoni: These tubular noodles are perfect for trapping sauce and cheese inside — don’t skip over rigatoni for this recipe!
Ground beef: I like 80/20 for balanced flavor and fat content, but you can lean it up if you prefer.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed — finely chop to blend in well.
Salt and pepper: Keeps seasoning simple but essential for bringing everything together.
Garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning: These spices add warmth and that classic Italian feel without extra fuss.
Red pepper flakes: Just a bit for a hint of heat—feel free to adjust depending on your spice tolerance.
Minced garlic: Fresh garlic is a must here for that punch of flavor you just can’t get from powders alone.
Marinara sauce: Two jars provide the perfect amount of tangy tomato goodness—go for your favorite brand or homemade if you have extra time.
Heavy cream: This smooths out the marinara and adds richness to the sauce, making it luscious and velvety.
Ricotta cheese: I love how the ricotta adds that creamy, slightly tangy layer that keeps every bite luscious.
Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully and creates that irresistible cheesy crust on top.
Dried parsley: For color and a mild fresh flavor finish.
Parmesan cheese: The final sprinkle of salty, nutty goodness that takes this baked pasta over the top.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I often switch up ingredients or add extras to keep things interesting, and you’ll find your personal favorite version before you know it.

Vegetarian version: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and zucchini — I’ve done this when friends come over, and everyone loved how hearty it still felt.
Spicy kick: Double the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños if you want more heat; the creamy sauce balances the spice perfectly.
Cheese upgrades: Mix in some provolone or fontina for a different melty cheese profile. Once, I tried smoked mozzarella, and it gave such a fun twist!
Protein swap: Ground turkey or Italian sausage also work great if you want a leaner or more flavorful meat option.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free rigatoni and check your marinara for gluten-free labels — I’ve had success with this version and barely noticed the swap.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe

Step 1: Cook the rigatoni just right

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until it’s just shy of al dente, usually about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. This way, the pasta won’t get mushy when baked. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Build your savory meat sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef with the chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Browning the beef thoroughly adds so much flavor, so don’t rush this. Once the meat is cooked through, stir in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes, letting everything marry beautifully.

Step 3: Combine pasta, cheese, and sauce

In a large mixing bowl, fold the rigatoni into the meat sauce until it’s evenly coated. Next, dollop ricotta cheese throughout and gently mix in about half of the mozzarella. The ricotta gives pockets of creaminess that make each bite special.

Step 4: Assemble and bake

Transfer the rigatoni mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese generously on top, then dust with dried parsley for color. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are sizzling and the smell fills your kitchen—seriously, it’s the best part!

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe

Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love a simple sprinkle of fresh basil or extra parsley on top just before serving—it adds a pop of color and fresh aroma. A light drizzle of good olive oil can also elevate the flavors. If you’re feeling fancy, a spoonful of ricotta or shaved parmesan right before you serve makes it feel restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong pairing this with a crisp green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a lighter side, steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans balance out the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, I’ve served this in individual ramekins topped with a basil leaf—everyone loved how personal and special it felt. It’s also perfect for potlucks or family dinners where you want to impress without extra fuss. Adding colorful side plates or rustic bread baskets completes the comforting vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, I find that adding a splash of water or marinara helps maintain moisture so it doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe freezes really well. I portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking for easy weeknight dinners later. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake until hot and bubbly—almost as good as fresh!

Reheating

I reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning, for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave smaller portions, but the oven method really keeps it tasting fresh and melty.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of rigatoni for this Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni’s shape holds sauce beautifully, you can substitute penne, ziti, or even large elbow macaroni. Just keep in mind that cooking times and sauce distribution might slightly vary.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat alternative. The cheeses and sauce already offer rich, hearty flavors, so it won’t feel like you’re missing anything.
How can I make the sauce creamier in this Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe?

Adding the heavy cream is key to that velvety sauce texture here. If you want it even creamier, you can stir in a bit more ricotta or a splash of whole milk. Just make sure you don’t thin it too much to avoid a watery bake.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the dish up to step 4 (before baking), cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, bake it fresh for best texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Cheesy Baked Rigatoni?

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep the cheese from drying out. Microwave works too for convenience, but the oven method preserves the texture and flavor best.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni Recipe holds a special spot in my kitchen because it’s one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table with smiles. With the creamy cheeses, hearty meat sauce, and that perfectly baked crust, it’s comfort food at its finest. Give this recipe a try—I know once you do, it’ll quickly become a favorite for you, too. Happy cooking!