There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a hearty baked rigatoni with sausage straight from the oven. This dish combines tender pasta, flavorful sausage, and gooey cheese, making it a hit at every family dinner. It's easy to prepare, endlessly customizable and comes together in one dish—perfect for busy evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients for Baked Rigatoni with Sausage
The beauty of baked rigatoni lies in its simplicity. Few complicated ingredients are needed to create a meal packed with flavor.
Main Ingredients
- Rigatoni pasta: The ridged edges of rigatoni hold onto sauce and cheese beautifully.
- Italian sausage: Sweet or spicy varieties work, depending on your preference.
- Marinara sauce: Use a quality store-bought option or homemade to control the flavor.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
- Mozzarella cheese: Provides that perfect melted and bubbly texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Optional, but a sprinkle adds a sharp, savory bite.
Optional Add-ins
Want to give your baked rigatoni a boost? Add some veggies for extra color, texture, and nutrients:
- Spinach: Wilts easily and blends in seamlessly with the sauce.
- Broccoli: Adds a hearty crunch and pairs well with sausage.
- Mushrooms: For an earthy depth of flavor.
- Bell peppers: Roasted red peppers are a popular choice for sweetness.
Preparation Steps
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Creating this comforting dish is all about layering flavors. Follow these steps, and you'll soon have a bubbling, golden masterpiece on your table.
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling rigatoni in salted water until it's just al dente. You don’t want to cook the pasta here fully since it will continue to soften while baking. Drain and toss it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Making the Sausage Mixture
Remove the casings from the sausage if necessary. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat, but leave some for flavor. For extra seasoning, consider adding:
- Garlic: Minced and sautéed for a few minutes.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the sauce.
- Red pepper flakes: For a subtle kick of heat.
Once the sausage is cooked, stir in marinara sauce to coat it evenly.
Assembling the Dish
Here’s where it all comes together:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Spread a thin layer of sausage-marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Add half of the cooked rigatoni in an even layer.
- Spread dollops of ricotta cheese over the pasta.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and parmesan (if using).
- Repeat the layers: pasta, ricotta, sauce, and remaining cheeses.
Baking Instructions
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure the layers hold together.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Rigatoni
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Want to take your baked rigatoni to the next level? These tips will help you get the best flavor and texture.
Choosing the Right Sausage
The type of sausage you use can define the dish:
- Sweet Italian sausage: Mild and adds a subtle sweetness.
- Spicy Italian sausage: For those who like a bit of heat.
- Chicken sausage: A lighter alternative with plenty of flavor.
Cheese Variations
Mozzarella is classic, but there’s room for creativity:
- Fontina: Melts smoothly and adds richness.
- Provolone: A mild, smoky option to mix things up.
- Pecorino Romano: Adds a salty edge when sprinkled on top.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Baked rigatoni tastes just as good the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Transfer the pasta to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
- Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
If using a microwave, add a splash of marinara to keep the pasta moist.
Conclusion
Baked rigatoni with sausage is more than just a meal—it’s a way to bring people together. It's layers of tender pasta, savory sausage, melted cheese, and rich sauce make it a comforting favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with veggies and cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Why not give it a try this week? Your family and friends will thank you.
👉 Breakfast recipe.>> 👉 Lunch recipe.>> 👉 Dinner recipe.>>