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Baked Rigatoni

Baked Rigatoni: A Hearty Family Favorite for Cozy Nights

This Baked Rigatoni is a comforting family favorite, bursting with flavors and perfect for chilly evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Rigatoni can be substituted with ziti
For the Meats
  • 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage can swap for ground beef or turkey
  • 1 pound Ground Beef (90/10) extra-lean or add more sausage if preferred
For the Veggies
  • 1 medium Diced Yellow Onion shallots or leeks can replace
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) fresh garlic is best
For the Sauce
  • 24 ounces Marinara Sauce homemade can be used
  • 15 ounces Crushed Tomatoes adds texture and freshness
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt sea salt can be used in smaller amounts
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning fresh herbs can elevate flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Salted Butter unsalted butter is an option
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Freshly Grated Mozzarella Cheese freshly grated is best
  • 2 tablespoons Minced Fresh Parsley basil or oregano can be used

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • large pot
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Steps for Baked Rigatoni
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) with a rack in the center.
  2. In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the rigatoni until al dente for about 9-11 minutes.
  3. In a Dutch oven, heat oil and sauté ground sausage and beef for about 10 minutes until browned.
  4. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, and butter, cooking for about 3 minutes.
  6. Mix the drained rigatoni into the sauce in the Dutch oven, folding gently until well coated.
  7. Transfer to a 9 x 13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
  8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes, then sprinkle with minced parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, do not overcook the rigatoni and consider mixing different cheeses for added flavor.

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