Description

Baked Rigatoni with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender rigatoni pasta enveloped in a savory marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any occasion that calls for a hearty meal. With its rich flavors and inviting aromas, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a beloved staple in many homes. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful pasta dish.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet)
4 cups marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the rigatoni for about 8 minutes until just al dente.
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook Italian sausage until browned. Add minced garlic towards the end.
Pour in marinara sauce, mixing well. Let it simmer.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan; season with salt and pepper.
In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked rigatoni, followed by half of the sausage mixture and dollops of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, removing foil during the last 10 minutes for browning.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 450
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Substitute sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.