Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

There’s nothing quite like the joy of sitting down to a warm, cheesy plate of baked pasta. Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni is the perfect recipe for those moments when you want something hearty, flavorful, and downright comforting. The combination of tender rigatoni, savory Italian sausage, rich marinara, and creamy cheeses makes every bite a celebration of comfort food at its finest.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy evening at home, this recipe will leave you satisfied and craving more.

What Makes Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni So Special?

This dish is more than just pasta—it’s a blend of bold flavors and gooey textures that come together perfectly in the oven. From the smoky fennel-spiced sausage to the bubbling provolone cheese, every element complements the others, creating a symphony of tastes.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
• Easy to Customize: Swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble it in advance and bake when you’re ready.

Ingredients for Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients to ensure a seamless cooking experience.

Ingredient List

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Extra virgin olive oil	For drizzling	Prevents sticking and adds flavor
Ground sweet Italian sausage	1 pound	Adds a rich, savory base
Fennel seeds	1 tablespoon	Enhances the sausage’s flavor
Onion	1 small, chopped	Adds sweetness and depth
Roasted red bell peppers	12 ounces	Provides a smoky, tangy flavor
Marinara sauce	25 ounces	DeLallo Pomodoro Fresco recommended
Rigatoni pasta	16 ounces	Holds sauce and cheese beautifully
Ricotta cheese	15 ounces	Creamy and mild
Parmesan cheese	8 ounces	Grated for a nutty, savory topping
Italian flat-leaf parsley	¼ cup, chopped	Adds freshness and balance
Provolone cheese	6–8 slices	Melts into a golden, bubbly crust

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Drizzle olive oil into a 2 ½ or 3-quart baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onions

1. Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and fennel seeds, breaking up the sausage into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the onion is tender and translucent.

Step 3: Add the Peppers and Sauce

1. Chop the roasted red bell peppers into small pieces.
2. Stir the peppers and marinara sauce into the sausage mixture.
3. Cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Rigatoni

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the rigatoni and cook for just 5 minutes—it should be slightly undercooked.
3. Drain the pasta and mix it into the sausage and sauce mixture.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
2. Stir until smooth and evenly combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

1. Spread half of the rigatoni and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish.
2. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta in small spoonfuls.
3. Layer 3–4 slices of provolone cheese over the ricotta.
4. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta, and provolone slices.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake the assembled dish uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
2. Let the baked rigatoni cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni

This dish is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a few simple sides:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad balances the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans make a nutritious addition.

Tips for Success

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh cheeses, good marinara sauce, and flavorful sausage make all the difference.
2. Undercook the Pasta: Cooking the rigatoni slightly less than al dente ensures it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
3. Customize the Recipe: Add mushrooms, spinach, or spicy sausage for a unique twist.
4. Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520
Protein	25g
Fat	24g
Carbohydrates	45g
Sodium	820mg

FAQs About Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, ziti, or even shells can work well in this recipe.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Assemble the rigatoni without baking, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15–20 minutes to the cooking time.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.

5. How do I reheat baked rigatoni?

Cover the dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions.

6. Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or a béchamel sauce as a creamy layer.

Why You Should Make Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni Tonight

There’s no better way to bring people together than with a warm, cheesy casserole like Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni. Its bold flavors, easy preparation, and comforting appeal make it a recipe you’ll want to keep on rotation.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will always impress. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a little slice of Italian-inspired heaven tonight!

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