Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente, drain, and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion, cook for 3–4 mins, then add garlic and sauté 1–2 mins.

3. Brown the Meat
   Add ground beef (or pork mix), break it apart, cook 6–8 mins. Drain excess fat.

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4. Build the Sauce
   Stir in tomato paste, cook 2 mins. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Simmer uncovered 10–15 mins.

5. Combine with Pasta
   Add pasta to sauce, stir to coat. Simmer on low 3–4 mins.

6. Add Cheese
   Top with shredded mozzarella, cover for 5 mins until melted. Broil for 2 mins if desired.

7. Serve
   Garnish with parsley or thyme. Serve hot with bread or salad.

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Ingredient Tips

• Meat: Mix beef & pork or use ground turkey/chicken for lean version

• Tomatoes: San Marzano = richer flavor

• Cheese: Use mozzarella, or blend with Parmesan/fontina

• Pasta: Rigatoni holds sauce well. Penne/ziti also good options

Tips & Variations

• Add mushrooms, carrots, spinach

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• Go spicy: more red chili flakes

• Gluten-free? Use GF pasta

• Make it baked: add breadcrumbs + oven finish

• Low-carb? Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash

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Storage

• Fridge: 4 days in airtight container

• Freezer: 2 months. Thaw overnight, reheat with splash of water

 Time & Yield

• Prep: 10 mins

• Cook: 30 mins

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• Total: ~40 mins

• Servings: 4–5

 Tools Needed

• Large pot

• Deep skillet/Dutch oven

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• Wooden spoon

• Cheese grater

• 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.