For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage while browning. Fresh mozzarella can be used for a richer, creamier topping. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Assemble the bake ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Easy Italian Sausage and Rigatoni
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME1 hrs 15 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 25 mins
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SERVING6 People
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VIEWS40
A symphony of Italian flavors, this rigatoni bake is a comforting and effortless dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal. The creamy ricotta and tangy tomato sauce meld beautifully with the savory sausage and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a culinary masterpiece that's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate57 g
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Cholesterol133 mg
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Fiber6 g
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Protein40 g
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Saturated Fat13 g
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Sodium1953 mg
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Sugar18 g
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Fat32 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPreheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. (5 minutes)
02
StepBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain well and set aside. (15 minutes)
03
StepWhile the pasta is cooking, brown the Italian sausage and onion in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking up the sausage with a spoon. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. (10 minutes)
04
StepIn a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Italian seasoning, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked sausage mixture and stir to combine thoroughly. Gently fold in the cooked rigatoni until evenly coated. (10 minutes)
05
StepTransfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it in an even layer. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. (5 minutes)
06
StepBake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. (45 minutes)
07
StepContinue baking, uncovered, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, about 15 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. (25 minutes)
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Ellsworth Sporer
Jun 28, 2025This was a huge hit with my family! So easy to make and everyone loved it.
Kara Schoen
Jun 5, 2025Great recipe! I made it ahead of time and it was perfect for a busy weeknight.
Pearline Hills
Apr 16, 2025I added some chopped bell peppers and mushrooms, as suggested, and it was delicious!
Angeline Mraz
Feb 14, 2025Easy to follow and tastes amazing! I will definitely make this again.
Lori Simonis
Feb 14, 2025I used ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese and it turned out great!
Lamont Gradywilliamson
Dec 13, 2024This is my go-to recipe for a quick and easy comfort food dinner.