Description
Creamy Baked Rigatoni Al Forno is a comforting Italian pasta bake featuring tender rigatoni pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato and meat sauce, layered with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or meal prep, this dish combines savory ground beef or sausage with aromatic herbs and creamy textures for an indulgent yet satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Cook meat and aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage, cooking until browned and crumbled. Stir in finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Make creamy sauce: Pour in marinara sauce and heavy cream. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow sauce to simmer for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors meld together.
- Combine pasta and ricotta: Stir the cooked rigatoni and ricotta cheese into the sauce, mixing well to ensure pasta is evenly coated with creamy sauce.
- Layer pasta and cheeses: Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then finish by sprinkling with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
