Easy Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe to Try Today

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender rigatoni noodles with rich tomato sauce, layers of ooey-gooey cheese, and fragrant herbs, this dish comes together in no time and delivers all the cheesy, savory goodness you crave. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply craving some homemade comfort food, this recipe provides easy prep, approachable ingredients, and a deliciously satisfying finish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless comfort food: Easy to prepare with simple steps that fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
• Cheesy, layered delight: Multiple types of cheese melt together creating creamy, gooey textures in every bite.
• Family-friendly flavors: Mild yet savory sauce and pasta that appeal to kids and adults alike.
• Great for meal prep: Makes excellent leftovers and holds up well for reheating during busy weekdays.
• Customizable base: Adapts easily to add vegetables, meats, or different cheeses to suit your tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe combines staple pantry ingredients with fresh elements for a balanced and flavorful dish. Each ingredient plays a role, whether it’s building the sauce base, adding richness, or contributing texture and color.

• Rigatoni pasta: Choose ridged tubes that hold sauce perfectly for every bite.
• Canned crushed tomatoes: Use good quality tomatoes for a bright, natural flavor in your sauce.
• Italian seasoning blend: A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme that adds herby depth.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic infuses warmth and savory notes into the sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese: For melty, stringy cheese layers that make every forkful irresistible.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that boosts the overall flavor profile.
• Ricotta cheese: Creamy texture creates softness and richness between pasta layers.
• Olive oil: For sautéing garlic and adding a subtle fruity undertone.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Fresh basil (optional): Adds a fragrant freshness and beautiful color when sprinkled on top.

Variations for Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

One of the best parts about this baked rigatoni recipe is how easy it is to customize based on what you have or want to try. Whether you want to keep it vegetarian, boost protein, or add more veggies, there’s a way to make it your own without losing any of the deliciousness.

• Vegetable-packed: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to increase nutrients and color.
• Meaty twist: Stir in cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken for extra heartiness.
• Spicy kick: Throw in red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to bring a little heat to the dish.
• Cheese variety: Swap mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a flavor twist.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free rigatoni to make it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni just until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped garlic until fragrant and golden. Add the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning, then simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop rich flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked rigatoni with the tomato sauce until each piece is well-coated. This ensures every bite is full of savory goodness.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of the pasta mixture on the bottom. Add dollops of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Repeat layers until all pasta and cheeses are used, finishing with a cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, golden, and slightly browned on top. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

• Reserve pasta water: Save some cooking water to loosen sauce if it gets too thick before baking.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Aim for al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven and prevent mushiness.
• Layer evenly: Spread cheese and pasta evenly between layers for consistent flavor and texture.
• Use fresh cheeses: Fresh ricotta and good-quality mozzarella give the best creaminess and melt.
• Let it rest: Allow the baked rigatoni to cool a bit after baking to set and make serving easier.

How to Serve Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. A light grating of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving adds a polished finish.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the baked rigatoni in individual ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties or family-style in a rustic casserole dish to invite sharing around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled baked rigatoni in airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, perfect for quick reheats or packed lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked rigatoni in a freezer-safe dish or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave individual portions for quicker meals. Add a splash of water or sauce if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for holding sauce, penne, ziti, or even shells can be substituted with great results.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this baked rigatoni pasta recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written, but you can also add cooked meat if desired.

What cheeses work best for this dish?

Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan are classic choices that balance meltiness, creaminess, and flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based cheese alternatives and oil-based ricotta substitutes to make it dairy-free while keeping the delicious texture.

How long does this recipe take from start to finish?

The prep and baking combined usually take about 45 minutes to an hour, making it great for weeknight cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe is the ultimate go-to comfort meal that consistently satisfies with its cheesy layers and rich flavors. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it to your liking, it’s a simple dish that feels homemade and special every time. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and enjoy this warm, cheesy goodness just like I do!

Related Posts

• Funfetti Snowball Cookies

Print