Baked Rigatoni with Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort dish, blending al dente pasta with rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and a golden-brown layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Every bite is packed with bold Italian flavors, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings with loved ones. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, and the cheesy, bubbly topping makes it an irresistible favorite. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete and hearty meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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12 oz rigatoni pasta
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2 cups marinara sauce
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add marinara sauce, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
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Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and ricotta mixture, stirring well.
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Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Baked Rigatoni with Mozzarella is a classic Italian-American dish that combines hearty pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese to create a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even special occasions when you want something simple yet indulgent. The combination of textures, from the tender pasta to the golden, bubbly cheese on top, makes it a favorite among both adults and kids alike.
If you love lasagna but are looking for a quicker and easier alternative, baked rigatoni is an excellent choice. It captures the same layered flavors but requires less effort and fewer steps. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this dish is easy to master and can be customized in many ways to suit your taste.
The History of Baked Pasta Dishes
Baked pasta dishes, commonly referred to as “pasta al forno” in Italian cuisine, have been a staple in Italian households for centuries. Traditionally, these dishes were prepared for Sunday family meals or festive gatherings, where the slow-baked, cheesy pasta would be served fresh from the oven.
Rigatoni itself is a beloved pasta shape in Italian cuisine. Its ridged texture allows it to hold onto sauce better than smoother pasta varieties, making it ideal for baked dishes. The use of mozzarella and ricotta in baked pasta recipes is particularly common in Southern Italy, where dairy products like fresh cheeses are widely used in cooking.
Over time, baked rigatoni has evolved, becoming a favorite comfort dish in Italian-American households. It is now a go-to recipe for busy families who want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why Baked Rigatoni with Mozzarella is a dish worth trying. Here are just a few:
- Easy to Make: This dish doesn’t require complicated techniques or specialty ingredients. Even novice cooks can prepare it with ease.
- Great for Meal Prep: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add different meats, vegetables, or cheeses to create a version that suits your preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This pasta reheats well and tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, everyone loves a warm and cheesy pasta bake.
Variations and Customization Options
One of the best things about baked rigatoni is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways to change up the recipe and add your own personal touch:
1. Add Protein
- Ground Beef or Sausage: Brown some ground beef or Italian sausage and mix it with the marinara sauce for a meatier version.
- Chicken: Add cooked, shredded chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Meatballs: Small homemade or store-bought meatballs make an excellent addition.
2. Make It Vegetarian
- Spinach and Mushrooms: Sautéed spinach and mushrooms add extra depth of flavor and make the dish more nutritious.
- Zucchini and Bell Peppers: These vegetables give the dish a slightly sweet and crunchy contrast.
3. Experiment with Cheese
- Smoked Mozzarella: Adds a unique, slightly smoky flavor.
- Burrata: Adds an extra creamy and rich texture.
- Extra Parmesan: A little extra Parmesan can enhance the savory and umami notes of the dish.
4. Try a Different Sauce
- Alfredo Sauce: Swap out the marinara for a creamy white sauce.
- Vodka Sauce: Adds a slight tanginess and richness.
- Spicy Arrabbiata: If you love a bit of heat, try using a spicier tomato-based sauce.
Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Rigatoni
To ensure your baked rigatoni turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, it’s best to cook it just until it’s slightly firm to the bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan melt better and taste fresher than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
- Layer the Ingredients: Evenly distribute the sauce, ricotta mixture, and cheese layers to ensure each bite is flavorful.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
What to Serve with Baked Rigatoni
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options to complete your meal:
- Garlic Bread: The perfect way to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with balsamic dressing balances out the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for added nutrition.
- Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato-based sauce beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Baked rigatoni is great for leftovers, and proper storage ensures it stays delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly with foil or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Conclusion:
Baked Rigatoni with Mozzarella is a true comfort food classic that’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and endlessly versatile. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The combination of pasta, rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella creates a meal that is both hearty and irresistible. Plus, with the variety of ways to customize it, you can make it your own every time you prepare it.
So, the next time you’re craving something cheesy, warm, and delicious, give this baked rigatoni recipe a try. It just might become your new go-to dish for every occasion!
