Ingredients

1 lb rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil , divided
1/3 lb ground beef
1/3 lb ground pork
1/3 lb ground veal
1 can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons dry red wine
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder ( use 1/2 tsp if you love garlic )
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup parmesan cheese , finely and freshly grated ( not canned )
1 cup mozzarella cheese , shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese , shredded
4 ounces ricotta cheese
salt , to taste
pepper , to taste
Italian Rigatoni Pie is a classic Italian dish that is beloved by many. Originally served as a way to use up leftover pasta, the dish has become a staple at Italian family dinners and gatherings. The pie is made up of layers of rigatoni pasta, meat and cheese, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. The dish is versatile and can be customized to include your favourite meats and cheeses. The meat can be left out entirely for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2.Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground beef, ground pork and ground veal to the skillet and cook until it is browned. Drain off any excess grease.
4.Add the can of crushed tomatoes, dry red wine and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet, then add in the dried parsley, dried basil, garlic powder, dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 5 minutes and then set aside.
5.In a large bowl, combine the rigatoni and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well.
6.Add the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese and ricotta cheese to the bowl. Mix well.
7.Add the meat mixture to the bowl and mix well.
8.Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch pie plate that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
9.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top of the pie is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10.Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

PROS

Italian Rigatoni Pie is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for a family dinner.

It can be easily customized to include your favorite meat and cheese combinations.

It is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the freezer for later.

It is a complete meal in one dish, making clean-up a breeze.

CONS

Italian Rigatoni Pie is high in calories and fat due to the meat and cheese components.

It is not suitable for people with lactose intolerance.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Italian Rigatoni Pie contains a significant amount of protein from the various meats and cheeses. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.
The meal also contains a moderate amount of calcium from the cheeses, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.