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Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Baked Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
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A warm and comforting baked rigatoni pasta dish loaded with tender rigatoni, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, stretchy mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan cheese, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Perfect for a quick, hearty weeknight meal or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta (preferably ridged)
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh basil or 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rigatoni: Boil rigatoni in salted water until just shy of al dente—about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions—since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and lightly drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté finely chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add marinara sauce and seasoning, then simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors beautifully.
  3. Mix the Cheese and Pasta: In a large bowl, combine cooked rigatoni, sauce, and dollops of creamy ricotta. Toss gently until all pasta is evenly coated and cheesy goodness starts developing.
  4. Assemble and Top: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle generous amounts of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top to form that irresistible golden-crusted layer.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and turning golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes to set before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta: Undercook slightly to keep the rigatoni firm after baking.
  • Use fresh cheese: Fresh mozzarella and ricotta improve creaminess dramatically.
  • Let it rest: Allow baked pasta to cool 5 minutes before serving to avoid runny cheese.
  • Season layers carefully: Salt each component lightly to avoid oversalting.
  • Use a high-quality marinara sauce for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked rigatoni, cheesy pasta bake, Italian pasta recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/baked-rigatoni-pasta-recipe/