Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This crucial step ensures that your Cheesy Beef Rigatoni Bake cooks evenly and achieves that beautiful, golden finish.
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Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Al dente pasta provides the perfect chew and prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. This is where the aroma starts to fill your kitchen, adding depth to the dish.
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Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, stirring to ensure all the meat cooks thoroughly. The tremendous flavor of seasoned beef will elevate your bake to another level.
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Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. This melds the flavors together and creates a wonderful base for your rigatoni.
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Combine the cooked rigatoni with the beef and sauce mixture. Make sure the pasta is well-coated for maximum flavor. Transfer to a baking dish and top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a tremendous topping that everyone will enjoy.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving—this lets the cheese set a little.
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Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy beef rigatoni bake! Each spoonful is a comforting reminder of home, perfect for cold nights.
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