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
Scale
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
