This meaty baked rigatoni is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to prepare. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked rigatoni, rich meat sauce, bursts of green peas, and melting cheese, all coming together in a blend of textures and flavors. Easy to assemble and even more delightful to devour, this dish promises a comforting hug in a bowl, making it an instant favorite for both weeknights and special occasions!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients (5 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Dice the onion and mince the garlic, and set aside.
- Cook Pasta (10 minutes): Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Meat Sauce (15 minutes): In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the ground meat, cooking until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Assemble the Dish (5-7 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, meat sauce, peas, and ricotta cheese. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake (20 minutes): Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Digging into this Meaty Baked Rigatoni with Peas is like discovering layers of happiness in every bite. For an even richer flavor, you might consider using a homemade marinara sauce or adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce. Accompany this hearty dish with a crisp, green salad and some garlic bread to round off the meal. A glass of your favorite red wine could be the perfect partner to elevate this dining experience. Remember, it’s not just about filling the stomach; it’s about fulfilling the soul with every forkful.
*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
