Baked Rigatoni with Sausage

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that will satisfy your taste buds?

Jump to recipePin it
Baked Rigatoni with Sausage
Prep
50 min
Cook
30 min
Total
50 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

  2. To make the topping, combine the ricotta, basil, and salt in a small bowl. Mix together using a rubber spatula. Set aside.

  3. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and cook rigatoni for 5 minutes. Drain well, but save 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

  4. Meanwhile, heat a large braiser or ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sausage. Cook, stirring frequently and breaking up the meat with the back of a spoon, until it starts to brown (around 7 minutes).

  5. Add broccoli and garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

  6. Stir in marinara sauce and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until fully combined. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and sprinkle 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top. Toss everything together to make sure the pasta is coated. If the sauce needs to be thinned, add the reserved pasta water.

  7. Evenly distribute dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture over the top of the pasta. Press the ricotta mixture into the pasta and cover it with some of the pasta.

  8. Sprinkle the mozzarella and remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake until golden brown and bubbly, which should take about 20

About this recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that will satisfy your taste buds? Look no further than Baked Rigatoni with Sausage! This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of rigatoni pasta, savory sausage, and a creamy tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let's dive in and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish!

The Perfect Pasta

When it comes to pasta dishes, texture is key. Rigatoni, with its large and ridged shape, is the ideal choice for this recipe. Its hollow center allows the sauce to seep inside, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, the ridges on the pasta help to hold the sauce, creating a delightful combination of creamy and chewy.

Sausage Sensation

No pasta dish is complete without a protein-packed addition, and sausage fits the bill perfectly. The robust flavors of Italian sausage complement the creamy tomato sauce, adding a savory and slightly spicy kick. Whether you opt for sweet or spicy sausage, be sure to cook it to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite in every mouthful.

Creamy Tomato Sauce

A good sauce is the heart and soul of any pasta dish, and this recipe is no exception. The creamy tomato sauce is a delightful blend of tangy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and velvety cream. The combination of these flavors creates a luscious and velvety sauce that coats the rigatoni and sausage, resulting in a dish that is rich, comforting, and utterly delicious.

How to Make Baked Rigatoni with Sausage

Now that you know all about the key ingredients, let's dive into the step-by-step process of making Baked Rigatoni with Sausage:

Step 1Cook the Rigatoni

Start by cooking the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2Brown the Sausage

In a separate skillet, heat some olive oil and add the sausage. Cook the sausage until it is browned and cooked through. This step adds depth of flavor and ensures that the sausage is tender and juicy.

Step 3Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir in some heavy cream and let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly. This process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and creamy sauce.

Step 4Combine and Bake

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked rigatoni, browned sausage, and creamy tomato sauce. Mix everything together until well coated. Top with grated cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for an extra layer of deliciousness. Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

In Conclusion

Baked Rigatoni with Sausage is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of Italian flavors in one comforting dish. From the ridged rigatoni pasta to the savory sausage and creamy tomato sauce, each bite is a burst of deliciousness. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or serve it to guests, this recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a plateful of pure satisfaction!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is the recommended choice, you can use any pasta you like. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti will work well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the dish will be cold when you put it in the oven.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Baked Rigatoni with Sausage freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! While Italian sausage is traditional and adds great flavor, you can substitute it with ground beef, chicken, or even vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms or tofu.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish. Bell peppers, onions, and spinach are all excellent choices that will add color, texture, and nutrients.

How long does it take to bake the dish?

The baking time will vary depending on your oven and the size of the baking dish. Generally, it takes around 20-25 minutes for the cheese to melt and become golden brown.

Can I make this dish without cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version. The dish will still be flavorful and delicious.

What can I serve with Baked Rigatoni with Sausage?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. The salad adds a refreshing element, while the garlic bread complements the flavors of the pasta and sausage.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More pasta & grains

See all →