Save A hearty Italian-American casserole featuring rigatoni pasta, savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked under a blanket of melted cheese.
I first made this baked rigatoni on a chilly weekend when my family craved something warming but quick to prepare. It became an instant favorite in our house thanks to its gooey cheese and flavorful sausage.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1 pound (450 g) rigatoni
- Meats: 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- Vegetables: 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- Vegetables: 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- Vegetables: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Sauce: 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Sauce: 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Sauce: 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Sauce: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sauce: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cheeses: 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cheeses: 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Other: 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Other: Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Sausage:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the onion and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Combine Sausage & Sauce:
- Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Toss Pasta:
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked rigatoni with the sausage and pepper sauce.
- Layer Ingredients:
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Top with remaining pasta and finish with the rest of the cheeses.
- Bake Casserole:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs and serving.
Save Our family loves sharing this dish on Sunday evenings, especially after spending the afternoon together in the kitchen. The smell of bubbling cheese brings everyone around the table for second helpings.
Recipe Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor. Switch up the sausage for chicken or omit for a vegetarian twist using plant-based crumbles.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread. For a festive touch, serve alongside a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese.
Make Ahead & Storage
Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the oven.
Save Enjoy this crowd-pleasing pasta bake for your next family meal. Leftovers make a satisfying lunch the next day.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausage works well for a lighter variation without losing flavor.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking before baking?
Cook the rigatoni just shy of al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions, so it finishes perfectly in the oven.
- → What types of cheese are best for this dish?
Mozzarella provides meltiness while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor; together they create a rich cheesy topping.
- → Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or extra bell peppers complement the flavors nicely and boost nutrition.
- → How spicy is this dish and can I adjust it?
The dish includes optional red pepper flakes for mild heat; increase or omit according to your spice preference.
- → What wine pairs well with this pasta bake?
A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese balances the richness and enhances the Italian-inspired flavors.