### Baked Rigatoni and Meatballs Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful Family Favorite
#### Introduction
Looking to impress your family or guests with a hearty and delicious pasta dish? Try our Baked Rigatoni and Meatballs Pasta recipe! This dish combines the comforting flavors of classic meatballs and rigatoni in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner night at home.
#### Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- **300g** ground beef
- **1 medium onion**, finely chopped
- **2 cloves garlic**, minced
- **2 cups** fresh breadcrumbs
- **1/2 cup** grated Parmesan cheese
- **1/4 cup** milk
- **1 teaspoon** salt
- **1/2 teaspoon** black pepper
- **1 tablespoon** olive oil
- **800g rigatoni pasta**
- **600ml jarred tomato sauce**
- **2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese**
- **1 tablespoon Italian seasoning**
- **Olive oil** for drizzling
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Meatballs:**
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25) using your hands.
2. **Cook the Rigatoni:**
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking liquid if needed for later use.
3. **Prepare the Sauce:**
- In another large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes per side).
- Remove meatballs from pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add jarred tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
4. **Combine Ingredients:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Drizzle olive oil in the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Arrange half the rigatoni pasta in the dish, then pour half the tomato sauce over it.
- Top with half the cooked meatballs. Repeat layers with remaining pasta and sauce.
5. **Final Touches:**
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of your layered pasta and meatballs.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
#### Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially in your meatballs.
- Ensure all meat is fully cooked by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer (160°F/71°C).
- Adjust the sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta cooking water if it's too thick or more tomato sauce if it’s too thin.
#### Conclusion
This Baked Rigatoni and Meatballs Pasta not only looks impressive but tastes incredible. Perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or just craving a comforting meal at home. Enjoy!