Irresistible Baked Rigatoni with Sausage Recipe Delight

Name: Baked Rigatoni with Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

April 26, 2025

Updated:

April 26, 2025

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There’s something about the aroma of Baked Rigatoni with Sausage wafting through the kitchen that makes even the grumpiest household member crack a smile. The rich blend of savory sausage, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. You can almost hear it humming, “Eat me! Eat me!” as you pull it from the oven.

This dish holds a special place in my heart. I remember making it for the first time during a particularly chilly evening when friends gathered for a movie marathon. We all cozied up on the couch, bowls in hand, savoring each cheesy bite while laughter echoed around us. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply to warm your soul after a long day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Baked Rigatoni with Sausage is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners simple and stress-free
The flavor profile is robust, featuring delicious sausage and melted cheese that everyone will adore
Its visual appeal, with golden-brown cheese on top, makes it irresistible at any gathering
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or sauces, this dish never gets old

I still remember my brother’s face when he took his first bite—it was like a cartoon light bulb turned on above his head.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Rigatoni Pasta: Choose large tubes to hold onto all that cheesy goodness; al dente works best.
Sausage: Italian sausage adds fantastic flavor; choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce enhances the flavor; homemade or store-bought both work great.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese brings richness; opt for whole milk ricotta for the best texture.
Shredded Mozzarella: The more, the cheesier! Look for whole milk mozzarella for excellent melting properties.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds depth; pre-grated doesn’t melt as beautifully.
Fresh Basil: Don’t skip this herb! It brightens up the dish and adds a fresh aroma.
Olive Oil: A splash helps to sauté the sausage and adds flavor; extra virgin is preferred.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the taste; minced garlic will infuse your dish with delightful aromas.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your dish; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and perfectly melted cheese at baking time.

Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add crumbled sausage. Cook until browned and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. The sizzling sound will make you want to dance!

Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic once the sausage is brown; cook for an additional minute until aromatic. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point.

Prepare the Pasta: While sautéing, boil water in a large pot. Add rigatoni and salt; cook until just al dente according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes should do it.

Mingle Everything: Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with sausage. Pour in marinara sauce and dollops of ricotta cheese. Stir gently until everything is combined and coated in saucy goodness.

Add Cheese Topping: Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle parmesan over it all like confetti at a party!

Bake Away: Place your masterpiece in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Prepare for some serious cheese pulls when serving!

Now grab some forks because Baked Rigatoni with Sausage is ready to steal the show! Enjoy every cheesy bite while sharing stories around the table—this dish is bound to create memories as delicious as its flavors!

You Must Know

Baked Rigatoni with Sausage is a hearty dish that warms your soul
The melty cheese and savory sausage create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, calling everyone to the table for a comforting meal
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage while boiling the rigatoni. Combine them with sauce, layer with cheese, and bake until bubbly.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sausage for ground turkey or add sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfect Baked Rigatoni with Sausage, ensure the pasta is al dente before baking
Use freshly grated cheese for better meltiness
Always let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burns and enhance flavors

Sharing my first attempt at Baked Rigatoni with Sausage reminds me of my friends’ hungry faces as they devoured every last bite, leaving me feeling like a culinary superstar.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta for Baked Rigatoni with Sausage?

Yes, any tube-shaped pasta like penne or ziti works well in this recipe.

How can I make Baked Rigatoni with Sausage vegetarian?

Substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives or add more vegetables for a delicious twist.

Can I freeze Baked Rigatoni with Sausage?

Absolutely! Just cover tightly and freeze for up to three months before baking.

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