BAKED RIGATONI PASTA RECIPE
Baked rigatoni pasta is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish with perfectly cooked rigatoni, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340g rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Pasta: Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic 1–2 minutes. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble: In a large bowl, mix pasta with ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella. Pour into baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool slightly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble pasta in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
- Flavor Variations: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best results.