Next, I add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. I let it brown before draining any excess fat. Once the beef is cooked through, I stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. It creates a rich, savory sauce that sets the tone for the entire dish. It’s at this moment that I can’t help but taste a spoonful—so delicious!
Then, I combine the cooked rigatoni with my beef mixture in a large mixing bowl. This part is truly satisfying as I watch the pasta soak up all the flavors. I gently fold in the ricotta cheese, about half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan until all the ingredients are well mixed. It’s a cheesy, creamy dream!
Finally, I pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and top it off with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. After a good thirty minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F, I get to enjoy the delicious smell wafting through my home as it bakes into golden perfection.
Pro Tips for Best Results
One thing I’ve learned over time is that using high-quality cheese really makes a difference. I once used a pre-shredded mix and was a bit let down by the texture. Since then, I always opt for fresh mozzarella and Parmesan for that perfect melt.
I also recommend seasoning the beef while sautéing. It’s such a little step but adds fantastic depth of flavor that infuses into the sauce. I tend to be generous with the Italian seasoning, and I always sneak in a pinch of red pepper flakes for that extra kick!
Lastly, don’t skip the step of letting it sit for a few minutes after baking. Giving it some time allows the cheesy goodness to set just right. I’ve made the mistake of diving in too early and ended up with a gooey mess instead of neat, cheesy slices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The first mistake I made when making this dish was forgetting to fully cook the pasta beforehand. I realized halfway into baking that it was still too chewy! Remember, undercooked pasta just won’t cut it, so be sure to follow those boiling instructions!
(See the next page below to continue…)