Step-by-Step Directions
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Cook the Pasta
Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente, drain, and set aside. -
Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion, cook for 3–4 mins, then add garlic and sauté 1–2 mins. -
Brown the Meat
Add ground beef (or pork mix), break it apart, cook 6–8 mins. Drain excess fat.Advertisement: -
Build the Sauce
Stir in tomato paste, cook 2 mins. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Simmer uncovered 10–15 mins. -
Combine with Pasta
Add pasta to sauce, stir to coat. Simmer on low 3–4 mins. -
Add Cheese
Top with shredded mozzarella, cover for 5 mins until melted. Broil for 2 mins if desired. -
Serve
Garnish with parsley or thyme. Serve hot with bread or salad.Advertisement:
Ingredient Tips
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Meat: Mix beef & pork or use ground turkey/chicken for lean version
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Tomatoes: San Marzano = richer flavor
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Cheese: Use mozzarella, or blend with Parmesan/fontina
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Pasta: Rigatoni holds sauce well. Penne/ziti also good options
Tips & Variations
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Add mushrooms, carrots, spinach
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Go spicy: more red chili flakes
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Gluten-free? Use GF pasta
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Make it baked: add breadcrumbs + oven finish
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Low-carb? Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash
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Storage
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Fridge: 4 days in airtight container
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Freezer: 2 months. Thaw overnight, reheat with splash of water
Time & Yield
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Prep: 10 mins
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Cook: 30 mins
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Total: ~40 mins
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Servings: 4–5
Tools Needed
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Large pot
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Deep skillet/Dutch oven
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Wooden spoon
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Cheese grater
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Airtight containers
FAQ
Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes — sauce in advance, combine with fresh pasta later.
Can I use other pasta?
Yes, penne, ziti, rotini all work.
Fresh tomatoes?
Yes, but you must peel/blend them. Canned = easier.
Spicy?
Only if you add chili. Otherwise, it’s mild.
Vegetarian?
Use lentils or plant-based meat instead.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Rigatoni Bolognese is everything you need in one skillet — flavorful, comforting, and family-approved. Whether you’re cooking after work or prepping meals ahead, it’s a no-fail recipe that always delivers.
