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Baked Rigatoni Casserole with Sausage and Ricotta

Baked Rigatoni Casserole with Sausage and Ricotta
45min Total Time
6 people Servings
Medium Difficulty
Moderate Cost
480 kcal Calories

Dig into a hearty bowl of Baked Rigatoni Casserole with Sausage and Ricotta, where comfort food meets culinary delight!


Ingredients

6
  • 1 pound rigatoni pasta
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2

Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

3

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces. Add onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is soft.

4

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Mix well.

6

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

7

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Kitchen Tools

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Chef's Tips

For added flavor, try using spicy Italian sausage.
You can substitute half the mozzarella with provolone for a unique taste.

Troubleshooting

If the top isn't browning, place it under the broiler for a minute or two.
If the dish is too dry, add a little water or broth before serving.

Recipe Variations

Add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the pasta mixture.
Mix in some diced peppers for an extra crunch.

Healthy Alternatives

Use whole wheat rigatoni for added fiber.
Opt for low-fat ricotta to reduce calories.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pair with a bold red wine for a cozy dinner.

Nutrition Facts

480
Calories
24g
Protein
45g
Carbs
24g
Fat
2g
Fiber
5g
Sugar
800mg
Sodium
75mg
Cholesterol

Dietary Info

High-protein

Garnish Ideas

Chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

Storage

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Leftover Ideas

Make baked rigatoni sandwiches using leftover pasta.
Create a pasta salad with diced vegetables and a vinaigrette.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy rigatoni.
Not letting the dish rest after baking can cause it to fall apart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, substituting gluten-free pasta is a great option!

What can I use if I don't have ricotta cheese?

Mashed cottage cheese or cream cheese can be suitable alternatives.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and bake when ready to serve.

What other meats can I use in this casserole?

Ground beef or turkey would also work well.

Reviews

Emily
Apr 19, 2026
This casserole was a hit with my family! So cheesy and delicious!
Michael
Apr 8, 2026
Great flavor, but wish it had a little more spice.
Sarah
Apr 11, 2026
Easy to make and perfect for leftovers.
David
Apr 28, 2026
It was good, but a bit too rich for my taste.
Anna
Apr 19, 2026
I added spinach and it turned out fantastic!
Chris
Apr 21, 2026
Really enjoyed this dish, will definitely make again!
Jessica
May 3, 2026
My kids loved it and asked for seconds!
Tom
May 5, 2026
Delicious, but took a bit longer to bake than stated.
Kelly
Apr 23, 2026
Perfect comforting dish for a cold evening.
Brian
Apr 12, 2026
Decent, but it didn’t wow me.
Laura
Apr 22, 2026
So creamy and filling! A new family favorite!
Aaron
Apr 12, 2026
A solid comfort meal, loved the texture.
Megan
May 1, 2026
The best rigatoni casserole I've ever made!
John
Apr 28, 2026
Pretty good, would recommend.
Sophia
Apr 6, 2026
I added extra cheese, it was amazing!
Kevin
Apr 17, 2026
Recommended by a friend, did not disappoint.
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