Stuffed Rigatoni Bake with Meat Filling & Chunky Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/4 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 large egg
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 can (28 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
A pinch of sugar (to balance acidity)
For Assembly:
1 box large rigatoni pasta
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Cook the rigatoni in salted water until just under al dente. Drain and lay flat on a tray to prevent sticking. Let cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.
2. Make the Meat Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and ground meat. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Let cool slightly, then transfer to a bowl.
Stir in Parmesan, ricotta (if using), egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet or a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes.
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar.
Let simmer for 10–15 minutes until thick and chunky.
4. Stuff the Rigatoni:
Fill a piping bag or small spoon with the meat mixture.
Carefully stuff each rigatoni tube with filling and arrange them upright in a greased round ceramic baking dish in a tight circular pattern.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Pour chunky tomato sauce generously over the top, letting it seep between the pasta.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese all over.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown in spots.
6. Garnish & Serve:
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve straight from the dish.
Present on a rustic wooden table with a slightly stained white napkin and scattered parsley leaves for that perfect homey, warm setting.
It’s the ultimate comfort dish — tender pasta stuffed with a flavorful meat mix, cozy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese all wrapped up in one rustic, mouthwatering casserole. Want a wine pairing or dessert suggestion too?