Nothing hits the spot quite like a piping hot beef rigatoni cheese bake straight from the oven. It brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and layers of rich, melted cheese into one bubbling, golden-brown masterpiece. This dish is pure comfort in a casserole dish, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when all you want is something hearty and satisfying.

You’ll love how easy it is to prepare with pantry-friendly ingredients and just a bit of hands-on time. The combination of marinara, garlic, Italian herbs, and a gooey cheese topping makes it irresistible for both kids and grown-ups alike. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for the week, this baked rigatoni delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

It’s a classic family favorite with a delicious twist: creamy ricotta blended into the layers. This small touch adds richness that balances the tang of tomato sauce and the sharpness of melted mozzarella. Plus, the baked texture creates crispy edges and a soft cheesy center that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

The recipe is also flexible. Swap in ground turkey, use gluten-free pasta, or sneak in some spinach or mushrooms without losing the charm of the dish. It reheats beautifully and is just as good the next day, maybe even better.

What Kind of Cheese Works Best in Rigatoni Bakes?

For the most satisfying cheesy layer, a combination works best. Mozzarella gives you that irresistible stretch, while Parmesan brings in salty depth. Ricotta adds creamy contrast, and if you want an extra bite, a handful of sharp cheddar never hurts. Use freshly grated cheese if you can—it melts more smoothly and has better flavor than pre-shredded varieties.

Ingredients for the Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

To make this bake flavorful and comforting, you’ll need just a few kitchen staples. Each ingredient plays an important role, from building the sauce to layering the cheesy goodness.

Rigatoni pasta
Ground beef
Yellow onion
Garlic cloves
Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
Italian seasoning
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil

How To Make the Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rigatoni in salted water until just under al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics

Add olive oil, diced onions, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes or marinara. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Let it simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 5: Layer the Bake

In a greased baking dish, add half of the pasta, then half of the sauce, followed by dollops of ricotta and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.

How to Serve and Store This Casserole

This beef rigatoni cheese bake serves 6 to 8 people generously, making it a great option for dinner parties or leftovers for lunch. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and are best eaten within 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until hot.

You can also freeze it before baking. Assemble the dish, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed as usual.

What to Serve With Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake?

Garlic Bread

The classic companion. Toasty garlic bread is perfect for scooping up all the extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crunch and zing of Caesar salad bring freshness that cuts through the richness.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple veggie side adds nutrients and some balance to the cheesy bake.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on skewers with a balsamic drizzle make a light appetizer.

Red Wine

A glass of red—like Chianti or Cabernet—pairs beautifully with this bold and hearty dish.

Pickled Vegetables

The tangy crunch adds a fun contrast to the gooey pasta.

Creamy Polenta

Soft, buttery polenta can be served on the side or underneath a scoop of the rigatoni for double comfort.

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you loved this Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake, there are plenty more cheesy, hearty dishes to explore. Check out these other favorites:

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Let me know in the comments how your bake turned out! Did you add any extra cheese or maybe some spinach? Maybe you went full spice-mode with chili flakes?

I love seeing the creative twists you all come up with. Ask questions, share photos, and let’s swap casserole wisdom.

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