Baked Rigatoni with Sausage is like a warm hug in a dish, embracing you with its cheesy goodness and savory flavors. Picture al dente pasta nestled in a rich tomato sauce, surrounded by succulent sausage that adds a hearty kick. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, perfectly balanced with melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of fresh basil that dances on your palate.
Every time I prepare this dish, I’m transported back to those cozy family gatherings where laughter filled the room and plates were never empty. It’s perfect for lazy Sundays or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. Trust me; this Baked Rigatoni with Sausage will become your go-to comfort food!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked Rigatoni with Sausage is easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for gatherings
- The layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese create a mouthwatering experience
- It appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite
- Plus, it’s easily customizable based on your taste preferences!
I still remember the first time I served this dish at a dinner party; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Rigatoni Pasta: Opt for sturdy rigatoni that will hold up well against the sauce and cheese.
- Italian Sausage: Choose spicy or mild based on your preference; either works beautifully.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for an extra touch.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully; feel free to mix in some shredded for texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty depth that enhances the entire dish.
- Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh herbs; they elevate the flavors and add brightness.
- Olive Oil: A bit of olive oil helps sauté the sausage, adding richness to the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and flavor profile; don’t skimp on it!
- Onion: A chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce; make sure to soften it well.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray so nothing sticks later.
Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sausage. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. The sizzling sound is music to your ears!
Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic into the skillet with sausage. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine Sauce & Pasta: Stir in marinara sauce until mixed well. Add cooked rigatoni directly into the skillet, mixing everything together until coated evenly.
Add Cheese Galore!: Fold in half of the mozzarella cheese along with half of the Parmesan into the pasta mixture—because more cheese is always better!
Bake & Serve: Transfer everything into your greased baking dish and top with remaining cheeses. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before digging in!
Now that you’ve made this delectable Baked Rigatoni with Sausage, get ready for compliments! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you bask in your culinary glory.
You Must Know
- Baked Rigatoni with Sausage is a hearty dish that warms the soul
- Make sure to mix your cheeses for a delightful texture and flavor
- The aroma of this meal baking will have everyone flocking to the kitchen
- It’s comfort food at its finest!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage first, then cook rigatoni until al dente while preparing your sauce. This ensures every layer melds together perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap sausage for ground turkey or add spinach for extra nutrition. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can spice things up too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for a rich flavor; it makes a noticeable difference
- Always taste your sauce before assembling to adjust seasoning
- Let the baked rigatoni rest before serving for easier cutting and serving
I remember the first time I made Baked Rigatoni with Sausage; my friends couldn’t stop complimenting me! It became a go-to dish for gatherings, bringing everyone together over delicious bites.
FAQ
What type of sausage works best in Baked Rigatoni with Sausage?
Italian sausage is ideal due to its robust flavor, but feel free to experiment with others.
Can I prepare Baked Rigatoni in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time; just refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
How do I prevent my pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta until al dente before baking to maintain its texture during cooking.
Baked Rigatoni with Sausage
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a plate of Baked Rigatoni with Sausage, where al dente pasta meets rich marinara sauce, savory sausage, and an irresistible blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. This dish captures the essence of comfort food, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and brown the sausage for about 5-7 minutes until crumbly.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until onions are translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in marinara sauce and cooked rigatoni until well combined.
- Fold in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese into the mixture.
- Transfer to the greased baking dish, top with remaining cheeses, and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
