Stuffed Rigatoni Poppers

Ingredients
for 10 servings

2 teaspoons salt, divided
16 oz (455 g) rigatoni, 1 box
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb (455 g) ground beef
½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
oil, for frying
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup (115 g) bread crumbs
fresh parsley, for serving
shredded parmesan cheese, for serving
marinara sauce, warm for serving

Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil over high heat, season with a teaspoon of salt, then add the rigatoni.
2. Stir and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 5 minutes.
3. Drain the pasta and transfer to a large bowl. Add the olive oil and stir to coat. Set aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, add the ground beef, remaining teaspoon of salt, the pepper, oregano, parsley, onion, garlic, and mozzarella. Stir until combined.
5. Spoon the beef mixture into a zip top bag, seal the bag, and cut the corner to create a small opening.
6. Pipe the beef mixture into one side of the rigatoni, then flip and pipe the other side to fill.
7. Place the filled rigatoni on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
8. Heat the oil in a large pot until it reaches 350°F (180°C).
9. Place the flour, eggs, and bread crumbs into 3 separate medium bowls.
10. Take a rigatoni and roll it in the flour to coat, shake off any excess flour. Dip the rigatoni in the egg with a fork. Finally, roll the rigatoni in the bread crumbs until coated. Repeat with the remaining rigatoni.
11. Fry the rigatoni poppers 4 at a time until golden brown, about 4 minutes.
12. Drain on a wire rack or over paper towels.
13. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan.
14. Serve with marinara sauce.
15. Enjoy!