Baked Rigatoni with Beef and Mozzarella Casserole

Prep: 35 minCook: 30 min8 servingsmediumAmerican
Baked Rigatoni with Beef and Mozzarella Casserole

A hearty pasta casserole combining tender rigatoni with seasoned ground beef in rich tomato basil sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This comforting dish bakes until bubbly and golden, creating the perfect family dinner that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of two cheeses creates a creamy, indulgent topping while the pasta holds its shape beautifully through baking.

Nut-Free

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 2 ¾ cups uncooked rigatoni pasta
    penne or ziti1:1none

    similar tube pasta works well

  • 1 lb ground beef, at least 80% lean
    ground turkey1:1healthy

    lighter option

    Full guide →
  • 1 jar (26 oz) Muir Glen organic tomato basil pasta sauce
  • 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
    Italian blend cheese1:1none

    adds variety of flavors

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat oven and spray baking dish with cooking spray

  2. 2

    Cook and drain pasta according to package directions, being careful not to overcook

  3. 3

    Cook ground beef in skillet over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until thoroughly cooked, then drain

  4. 4

    Combine pasta, beef, pasta sauce, and half the mozzarella cheese in the pasta pot

  5. 5

    Pour mixture into prepared baking dish

  6. 6

    Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese

  7. 7

    Cover with foil and bake until casserole reaches temperature in center

  8. 8

    Garnish with chopped basil

Tips

Tip 1

Don't overcook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven during baking

Tip 2

Drain the ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole

Tip 3

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container

Make Ahead

Can be assembled up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated before baking

Serve With

Let rest 5 minutes after baking for easier serving and slicing

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't skip draining the beef to avoid greasy texture

Watch

Don't overbake or cheese will become tough

Substitutions

ground beef→
ground turkey1:1healthy

lighter option

Full guide →
rigatoni→
penne or ziti1:1none

similar tube pasta works well

mozzarella→
Italian blend cheese1:1none

adds variety of flavors

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, assemble without baking, wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes.

What if I don't have a 13x9 inch dish?

Use any 3-quart baking dish. Adjust baking time slightly if using a deeper or shallower dish.

Can I make this without meat?

Absolutely. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version with similar heartiness.