This baked rigatoni is a comfort food classic! It’s filled with cheesy goodness and a tasty tomato sauce that makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
You can’t go wrong with extra cheese melty on top! I love making this dish when I want something cozy and easy. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: This tube-shaped pasta holds the sauce beautifully! If you can’t find rigatoni, you could use penne or ziti, which also work well in baked dishes.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is convenient, but if you have the time, homemade is always great! For a change, try a roasted red pepper sauce or a creamy Alfredo if you prefer a white sauce.
Cheese: I like to use a mix of mozzarella for gooeyness, ricotta for creaminess, and Parmesan for a sharp kick. You can swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter version or use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme works perfect here. If you have fresh herbs, use them instead! Just remember that they can have a stronger flavor, so adjust accordingly.
How Do I Get the Cheese on Top to Be Perfectly Golden?
Getting that golden, bubbly cheese topping is key to a great baked rigatoni. Follow these steps for best results:
- Make sure to cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking. This helps the pasta heat through without burning the cheese.
- Remove the foil halfway through to let the cheese get golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning!
- If you like extra crunch, you can broil it for a minute or two at the end, but watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
Easy Baked Rigatoni with Cheese and Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Cheesy Layers:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy baked rigatoni recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at around 45 minutes total before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Boil Pasta:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, grab a large pot and fill it with salted water. Bring the water to a boil and add the rigatoni pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a large skillet, drizzle in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it smells amazing. Next, pour in the marinara sauce along with the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste!
3. Mix in the Cheeses:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the drained rigatoni and the marinara sauce. Give it a good stir to coat the pasta completely. Now, add half of the mozzarella cheese, all the ricotta cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese into the bowl. Gently mix until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Then, top it with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, making sure it’s all covered nicely.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or so. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set a bit. If you like, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your deliciously cheesy baked rigatoni!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you can’t find rigatoni, feel free to substitute with penne or ziti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
This baked rigatoni is already vegetarian since it features pasta, cheese, and marinara sauce. Just double-check the ingredients in your marinara for any unwanted additives, and you’re good to go!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
How Do I Reheat Leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, place them in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave if you’re short on time!
