Baked Stuffed Rigatoni with Meat (Cheesy Oven Pasta Recipe) 🍝

This baked stuffed rigatoni with meat is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender pasta, savory meat filling, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this easy baked pasta recipe looks impressive but is simple to make.

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Ingredients for Stuffed Rigatoni

• 400 g rigatoni (large, ridged)
• 350 g ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400 ml tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 200 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

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How to Make Baked Stuffed Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, then stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasoning

Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Let simmer for 8–10 minutes until thick and flavorful. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Stuff the Rigatoni

Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each rigatoni tube with the meat mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Arrange the stuffed rigatoni upright or side-by-side in a baking dish.
Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve hot.

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Serving Suggestions

This cheesy baked rigatoni pairs perfectly with:

• Garlic bread
• Fresh green salad
• Roasted vegetables

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Tips for the Best Stuffed Rigatoni

• Use a piping bag for easier and neater filling.
• Slightly undercook pasta to prevent it from becoming too soft when baked.
• Add ricotta or béchamel for extra creaminess.
• Mix different cheeses (mozzarella + parmesan) for more flavor.

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Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~50 minutes
• Servings: 4

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This easy baked stuffed rigatoni recipe is rich, cheesy, and full of flavor—perfect for when you want a comforting homemade pasta dish that everyone will love.