Flavorful Baked Mozzarella Rigatoni with Sausage
Indulge in this delightful Baked Mozzarella Rigatoni, a perfect fusion of rich flavors and comforting textures. Inspired by a classic recipe and refined for a homey culinary experience, this dish uses a delightful combination of mild and hot Italian sausage to create a savory base. The freshness of mozzarella and the aromatic presence of basil elevate the dish to a new level of deliciousness. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. With the tomatoes adding a hint of brightness and the spices bringing warmth, every bite is an invitation to savor the moment. Remember, the quality of ingredients matters, so don’t skimp on the fresh mozzarella and basil. This is definitely a keeper for your recipe book!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (for greasing the skillet)
mild Italian sausage
2 (casings removed)
hot Italian sausages
3 (casings removed)
rigatoni pasta
12 ounces (uncooked)
marinara sauce
2 1/2 cups (use your favorite brand)
medium tomatoes
2 (diced)
fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup (coarsely chopped)
dried oregano
2 teaspoons (dried)
red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon (optional, for spiciness)
fresh mozzarella cheese
16 ounces (cubed and sliced)
salt
to taste (to season the pasta water and mixture)
pepper
to taste (to season the mixture)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Prepare the fresh basil by tearing or coarsely chopping the leaves into dime-sized pieces; set aside.
3
Slice about five pieces of the fresh mozzarella cheese and set them aside. Cube the remaining mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
4
Dice the tomatoes and place them in a small bowl.
5
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat.
6
Meanwhile, fill a large pot with water, generously season it with salt, and bring it to a boil to cook the rigatoni pasta.
7
Lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish (2 inches deep) with olive oil.
8
In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, chopped basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and cubed mozzarella. Gently mix to combine.
9
Remove the casings from the Italian sausages and add them to the hot skillet, breaking them apart into clumps while browning until fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
10
Once the water is boiling, add the rigatoni and cook until just al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta once cooked.
11
Add the drained rigatoni and browned sausage to the large bowl with the other ingredients. Carefully fold to combine and ensure everything is well mixed.
12
Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
13
Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese on top, cutting the slices smaller for even distribution.
14
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven on the middle rack, and bake for approximately 20 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
15
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Mozzarella Rigatoni!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Flavorful Baked Mozzarella Rigatoni with Sausage.
What type of pasta is required for this dish?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of uncooked rigatoni pasta.
What temperature should I preheat my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
What kinds of sausage are used in this recipe?
This dish uses a combination of mild Italian sausage and hot Italian sausage.
How many mild Italian sausages are needed?
The recipe requires 2 mild Italian sausages.
How many hot Italian sausages are needed?
The recipe requires 3 hot Italian sausages.
How much fresh mozzarella cheese is used?
You will need 16 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese.
How should the mozzarella cheese be prepared?
Five pieces should be sliced for the top, and the remaining cheese should be cubed into bite-sized pieces.
What kind of sauce is recommended for the pasta?
You should use 2 1/2 cups of your favorite brand of marinara sauce.
How is the fresh basil prepared for the recipe?
The basil should be torn or coarsely chopped into dime-sized pieces.
How many tomatoes are used in this dish?
The recipe calls for 2 medium tomatoes, which should be diced.
What spices are added to the sauce mixture?
The mixture includes dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Are red pepper flakes mandatory?
No, red pepper flakes are optional and used for adding spiciness.
How long does it take to cook the sausage?
The sausage should be browned in a skillet for about 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked.
Should the sausage casings be removed?
Yes, remove the casings before adding the sausage to the hot skillet.
How should the rigatoni be cooked?
Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until it is just al dente according to the package instructions.
What size baking dish is needed?
A 9 x 13 inch baking dish that is 2 inches deep is recommended.
How do I prepare the baking dish?
Lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil.
What is the total baking time?
The dish should be baked for approximately 20 minutes.
How do I know when the baked rigatoni is finished?
It is finished when the mixture is bubbly and the cheese on top is slightly golden.
What items are mixed in the large bowl before adding pasta?
The marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, chopped basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and cubed mozzarella are combined first.
How much olive oil is used for the skillet?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil to heat the skillet.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 12 ingredients listed for this recipe.
Where should the dish be placed in the oven?
The baking dish should be placed on the middle rack of the oven.
Should I let the dish rest after baking?
Yes, you should let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How do I apply the sliced mozzarella?
Layer the sliced mozzarella on top of the pasta mixture, cutting slices smaller to ensure even distribution.
What is the texture of the basil?
The fresh basil should be coarsely chopped or torn into dime-sized pieces.
What type of cuisine does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is categorized as Italian cuisine and comfort food.
Is the pasta water seasoned?
Yes, you should generously season the pasta water with salt before boiling.
Can I use any brand of marinara sauce?
Yes, the recipe suggests using your favorite brand of marinara sauce.