Easy Baked Rigatoni with Sausage

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet easy-to-prepare dinner, this baked rigatoni with sausage is sure to become a favorite. Packed with robust flavors and simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love how effortless and delicious this baked pasta is!

Every time I prepare this delightful rigatoni, it takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of simmering sausage and tomato sauce would fill her cozy home, creating a welcoming and comforting atmosphere. As we gathered around the table, the satisfaction of sharing a meal made with love was unmatched.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it’s both family-friendly and bursting with flavor. Utilizing Italian sausage gives the dish its savory note, while the cheese provides just the right amount of creaminess. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it budget-friendly. Its versatility allows you to customize it to suit individual tastes or dietary preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The key to this dish is quality ingredients. Choose fresh Italian sausage — either sweet or hot, depending on your preference. For the best pasta texture, use a good brand of rigatoni that holds the sauce well. If you’re looking to make it vegetarian-friendly, substitute the sausage with roasted vegetables.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente.

Step 2

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Break it into small pieces with a spoon to ensure even cooking. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3

Combine the cooked sausage and rigatoni in a large mixing bowl. Add your favorite marinara sauce and half of the cheese, stirring until everything is well combined.

Step 4

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Step 5

Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, portion and freeze the pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a spicy twist, incorporate red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage. Veggie lovers can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free pasta and ensure the other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of robust red wine, enhancing the rich, savory flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or add extra baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

What can I use instead of sausage? If you prefer to make this dish vegetarian or are avoiding pork, try using plant-based sausage substitutes or sautéed mushrooms as a flavorful alternative.

How do I prevent the pasta from drying out? To ensure a moist and delightful dish, make sure your pasta is well coated in sauce before baking. If the top seems dry while baking, cover it with foil until the last few minutes to maintain the dish’s moisture.

Easy Baked Rigatoni with Sausage

This easy baked rigatoni with sausage is a hearty dish perfect for any night of the week. It’s loaded with flavor and incredibly satisfying!

No ratings yet

Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook Print

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 lb rigatoni pasta uncooked
• ▢ 1 lb Italian sausage casings removed
• ▢ 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
• ▢ 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
• ▢ 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• ▢ 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
• ▢ 2 garlic cloves minced
• ▢ 1 tsp dried basil
• ▢ 1 tsp dried oregano
• ▢ 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional
• ▢ 0.25 tsp salt to taste
• ▢ 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
• ▢ 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
• Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, sausage sauce mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.
• Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy hot.

Notes

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty bread. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the sauce for additional flavor and nutrition.