Baked Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheeses Recipe
If you’ve ever wanted a comforting and irresistibly cheesy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Baked Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheeses Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the perfect blend of tender rigatoni noodles smothered in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan cheeses, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish brings vibrant flavors and beautiful textures that will have everyone asking for seconds — and maybe thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from the hearty rigatoni that holds onto every bit of sauce to the fragrant Italian herbs that elevate the tomato base.
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta: The tube-shaped pasta perfectly traps the sauce and cheese inside.
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes: A rich and smooth base that makes the sauce naturally sweet and tangy.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend (oregano, basil, thyme): These dried herbs infuse the sauce with classic Mediterranean aromas.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant and savory depth to the tomato sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the garlic to golden perfection and adds a silky mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Provides a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds a luscious texture to the layers.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and gives that iconic ooey-gooey vibe.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish with just the right amount of saltiness.
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional): Brightens the final dish with fresh herbal notes.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Offers a vibrant green contrast and a touch of fresh earthiness when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Baked Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheeses Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni just until al dente according to the package directions—firm to the bite but not hard. This step is key because the pasta will continue cooking later in the oven, so you want it perfectly tender but not mushy. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside to await their cheesy destiny.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant—this quick step unlocks all the garlic’s amazing flavors. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning blend. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors mingle beautifully. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste, tasting as you go to find that perfect balance.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a spacious mixing bowl, toss the cooked rigatoni with the warm tomato sauce until every piece is generously coated. This ensures that each forkful bursts with savory delight. The sauce should cling to the rigatoni’s ridges and pockets, promising a mouthful of flavor with every bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of the pasta and sauce mixture across the bottom. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese here and there to create creamy pockets throughout. Next, sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Repeat these layers—pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan—until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a thick blanket of melted cheese that will crisp and brown beautifully.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You will know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling, golden, and speckled with just the right amount of brown crust. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving; this little pause helps the layers set and makes portioning much easier, while allowing all those amazing flavors to settle in harmoniously.
How to Serve Baked Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheeses Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil and parsley aren’t just for looks—they add a pop of freshness and a fragrant contrast to the rich cheeses and tomato sauce. A light sprinkle right before serving brightens every forkful and adds that restaurant-quality touch that makes this baked rigatoni truly special.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta holds its own, but why not complement it with a crisp green salad or some garlicky roasted vegetables? A simple Caesar salad or steamed broccoli with lemon zest can balance the richness and bring a variety of textures and flavors to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re calling guests or aiming for a wow-factor, bake this dish in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned servings. Or, try layering it in a clear glass dish so everyone can admire the stunning layers of pasta, sauce, and cheeses before you even cut into it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners when you want comfort without the effort.
Freezing
This Baked Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheeses Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer—just add extra baking time until heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly to keep that fresh-from-the-oven taste. Alternatively, a microwave works in a pinch, but try covering the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal for its size and shape that holds sauce well, penne, ziti, or even large shells work wonderfully too. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy in the oven.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! This dish is naturally vegetarian as is, assuming your cheeses don’t contain animal rennet. You can easily double-check or use plant-based cheese alternatives if you prefer vegan options.
Can I add meat to the Baked Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheeses Recipe?
Definitely! Cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or even shredded chicken mixed into the sauce takes this dish to the next level of hearty without sacrificing its comforting character.
How do I get a crispy top on my baked pasta?
Using a good amount of mozzarella and Parmesan on top encourages that golden, crispy crust. Broiling for the last 2-3 minutes also helps achieve beautifully browned cheese—just watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Cover the dish with foil when reheating in the oven to trap moisture. Adding a splash of water or extra sauce before reheating can also keep the pasta nice and juicy.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, packed with layers of warm, cheesy goodness and vibrant tomato flavors, don’t hesitate to dive into this Baked Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheeses Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a homemade hug and is sure to become a treasured recipe in your kitchen. Once you try it, I promise it will quickly become a go-to for cozy dinners and happy gatherings alike!
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Baked Rigatoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Cheeses Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Rigatoni Pasta recipe is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring al dente rigatoni pasta baked in a rich, homemade tomato sauce layered with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly seasoned with an Italian herb blend and garlic, this hearty casserole is baked until bubbly and golden brown, making it an ideal family dinner or gathering meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
Tomato Sauce
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Cheeses
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook it just until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, as it will continue to cook when baked.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the Italian seasoning blend. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to develop deep flavors. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the drained rigatoni to a large mixing bowl. Pour the tomato sauce over the pasta and toss thoroughly until every piece of rigatoni is well coated with sauce, ensuring rich flavor in each bite.
- Assemble the Layers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil or cooking spray. Spread a thin, even layer of the pasta and sauce mixture on the bottom of the dish. Dot spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over this layer, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat layering with remaining pasta mixture and cheeses, finishing with a top layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbling, and golden brown with slight browning edges. Once baked, allow the pasta to rest for a few minutes out of the oven to let the flavors marry and the dish to set before serving.
Notes
- Use a large pot to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Simmering the tomato sauce longer will enhance the depth of flavor.
- Feel free to add cooked ground meat or sautéed vegetables to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Fresh herbs like basil and parsley can be used as garnish for added freshness and color.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
