With both teams missing pivotal players, Rhinos hit back from 10-6 down at the break to secure a victory which boosted their hopes of a top-six finish.
It was Leeds' third successive Magic Weekend win and Tigers' first defeat at Newcastle's St James' Park.
Here's how the Rhinos players rated, plus marks for Tigers and the referee.
13. Cameron Smith (No17)
Official man of the match against his hometown club, some quality moments, particularly the pass for Bentley's try 8 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
14. Sub Brad Dwyer (No 14)
Made a positive impact with his pace off the bench 7 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
15. Sub Morgan Gannon (No 21)
Steady, but not much game time 7 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
16. Sub Sam Walters (No 22)
Impressive, put in two strong stints in the middle 8 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
17. Sub James Donaldson (No 25)
Put himself about, as normal, as a replacement prop 7 Photo: Will Palmer/SWpix.com
18. Castleford Tigers
Niall Evalds 7, Bureta Faraimo 8, Jake Mamo 6, Mahe Fonua 7, Derrell Olpherts 7, Greg Eden 6, Danny Richardson 7, George Griffin 6, Adam Milner 6, George Lawler 6, Kenny Edwards 6, Alex Mellor 7, Joe Westerman 8. Subs Daniel Smith 6, Suaia Matagi 6, Liam Watts 7, Brad Martin 6. Photo: Will Palmer/SWpix.com