Savor Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella Tonight!

Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella is a hearty, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy weekend meals. This decadent recipe combines tender rigatoni tubes, a rich and flavorful beef ragu, and melty mozzarella cheese for a truly delightful taste sensation. Whether you’re craving a classic Italian meal or looking for a new way to enjoy pasta, this stuffed rigatoni dish is sure to become a new favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth or red apple vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 12–14 large rigatoni pasta tubes
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil spray or brush

How to Make Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella

To start, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth or vinegar, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, until it has thickened slightly.

While the ragu is simmering, cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and let it cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Now, it’s time to stuff the rigatoni. Carefully spoon the beef ragu into each pasta tube, then top with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Arrange the stuffed rigatoni in the prepared baking dish, sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and lightly brush or spray with olive oil.

Bake the stuffed rigatoni for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden. Serve this Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella dish warm and enjoy the perfect balance of tender pasta, savory ragu, and melty cheese in every bite.

Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella

To ensure your Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella turns out flawless, here are a few tips:

• Cook the pasta al dente: This will prevent the rigatoni from becoming too soft and breaking during the stuffing process.
• Use a small spoon or piping bag to stuff the rigatoni: This helps to evenly distribute the ragu and cheese inside the tubes without making a mess.
• Brush or spray the stuffed rigatoni with olive oil: This will help the cheese on top get that beautiful golden-brown color and crispy texture.
• Experiment with different cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are a classic combination, you can also try using ricotta, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cajun Steak Rigatoni
• White Lasagna Soup
• Creamy “Marry Me” Chicken Ramen
• Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna

FAQs About Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella

What type of rigatoni is best for stuffing with beef ragu and mozzarella?

Large, wide rigatoni tubes work best for this recipe, as they provide ample space to stuff the beef ragu and mozzarella cheese inside. Look for rigatoni that are at least 1 inch in diameter for the best results.

Can I make the beef ragu ahead of time for this recipe?

Absolutely! The beef ragu can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making the final dish even more delicious. Simply reheat the ragu before stuffing the rigatoni.

How do I prevent the rigatoni from breaking while stuffing?

To prevent the rigatoni from breaking, be sure to cook them until they are al dente, not fully soft. This will give them the structural integrity needed to withstand the stuffing process. Additionally, use a small spoon or a piping bag to carefully fill each tube, taking care not to overstuff or force the filling in.

Can I freeze the stuffed rigatoni before baking?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze the stuffed rigatoni before baking. Assemble the dish as directed, but do not bake. Instead, place the stuffed rigatoni in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen stuffed rigatoni to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply transfer the frozen stuffed rigatoni to a baking dish and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Rigatoni Stuffed with Beef Ragu & Mozzarella is a comforting, flavorful pasta dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its tender pasta, savory beef ragu, and melty cheese, this recipe is the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy meal, give this delicious stuffed rigatoni a try. Bon appétit!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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