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There is something truly comforting about the Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Cheese Recipe that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. This dish combines hearty Italian sausage, perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta, and a luscious blend of cheeses all baked together in a rich marinara sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this baked rigatoni recipe offers layers of savory flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a big, delicious hug in a casserole dish.

Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that work harmoniously to create its irresistible flavor and texture. Each component, from the spicy Italian sausage to the creamy blend of cheeses, plays a crucial role in bringing this baked pasta to life.

Italian sausage (1 pound): Provides a savory, spiced meat base that infuses rich flavor throughout the dish.
Rigatoni (16 ounces): The tube-shaped pasta holds onto the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is saucy and satisfying.
Marinara sauce (40 ounces): A classic, flavorful tomato sauce that adds a vibrant and tangy backdrop for the rest of the ingredients.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Complements the garlic with a mild sweetness and aroma that’s essential in Italian cooking.
Chicken broth (3 cups): Keeps the pasta moist as it cooks, infusing a savory base flavor; beef broth can be used for a deeper richness.
Mozzarella cheese (8 ounces, shredded): Offers gooey, melty creaminess that’s indispensable in baked pasta dishes.
Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty accent that enhances the cheesy layer on top.
Fresh parsley or basil: For a fresh, herbaceous garnish that brightens the final dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Make Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Brown the Sausage

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, placing the rack on the lower-middle position to ensure even cooking. While the oven warms, heat a pan over medium-high heat and brown the Italian sausage. Break up the sausage as it cooks so that you get nice small crumbles that will distribute evenly throughout the pasta. Browning the meat properly is key because it develops rich, caramelized flavors that uplift the whole recipe.

Step 2: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Seasonings in the Baking Dish

In a large 9×13-inch baking pan, add the uncooked rigatoni along with the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and broth. Gently stir everything together until the pasta is well coated in sauce and the spices are evenly mixed in. Don’t worry about the pasta being uncooked here; it will absorb the flavorful broth and sauce as it bakes, creating a perfect, tender texture.

Step 3: Add Sausage and Cheese Layers

Evenly spread the cooked sausage over the top of the saucy rigatoni mixture. Then generously layer shredded mozzarella followed by grated Parmesan cheese. These cheese layers are what make this dish irresistibly creamy and offer that golden crust that everyone loves. The combination of mozzarella’s melty stretchiness and Parmesan’s sharpness is pure magic.

Step 4: Bake Covered Then Uncovered

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap steam and moisture, then bake for 40 minutes. This covered stage allows the pasta to cook perfectly in the sauce and broth without drying out. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes uncovered. This step browns the cheese on top, creating a beautiful, bubbling, golden crust that is an absolute feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

How to Serve Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or basil is the perfect finishing touch for this dish. The bright green herbs add a pop of color and a fresh, slightly peppery contrast to the rich, cheesy baked rigatoni. Don’t be shy with the garnish; it balances out the dish beautifully both visually and in flavor.

Side Dishes

This hearty baked rigatoni pairs wonderfully with simple, lighter sides that complement but don’t compete. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables make excellent accompaniments. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf are also classic choices that soak up the delicious sauce leftover on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive presentation, bake the rigatoni in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for personalized portions that look stunning on a family-style table. You can also sprinkle extra herbs and a dusting of Parmesan just before serving for added flair. For gatherings, consider a buffet style where everyone can serve themselves and add their favorite garnishes like red pepper flakes or extra cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Baked rigatoni actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors further meld together. Just be sure to keep it tightly sealed to maintain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out.

Freezing

This Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Cheese Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the 9×13 pan tightly with foil and plastic wrap to freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

For reheating, place portions in a microwave-safe bowl or oven-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel or foil and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, you might want to add a splash of broth or water and recover with foil to keep it moist and gooey.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional and packed with flavor, you can substitute with spicy chorizo, sweet breakfast sausage, or even a plant-based sausage to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Do I have to use rigatoni?

Rigatoni is ideal thanks to its large tubes that trap the sauce, but you can also try penne, ziti, or even large shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if your pasta shape differs significantly.

Is it necessary to brown the sausage first?

Browning the sausage before adding it to the dish is important because it develops the savory flavor and texture that can’t be achieved by simply baking it raw with the pasta and sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends largely on the sausage you choose. Italian sausage can range from mild to spicy. For more heat, choose spicy Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, plant-based crumbles, or roasted vegetables to keep it hearty and flavorful while accommodating vegetarian diets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a dish that’s packed with comforting flavors, simple to prepare, and sure to impress anyone at your table, look no further than this Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Cheese Recipe. It’s one of those all-time favorites that turns an ordinary meal into something truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to recipe for pasta nights!

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Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Cheese Recipe