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.
1. 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.
2. 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 and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
3. 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.
4. 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.
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.
Keywords: rigatoni, beef ragu, mozzarella