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Cheesy Rigatoni and Sausage Bake First Image

Cheesy Rigatoni and Sausage Bake


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  • Author: Chef John
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Meat-based

Description

This cheesy rigatoni and sausage bake is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for family dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound rigatoni pasta
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente, drain, and set aside.

  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

    Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft and translucent.

    Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

  3. Stir in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.

    Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

    Stir in the heavy cream and mix until well combined.

  4. In a large baking dish, combine cooked rigatoni and sausage mixture.

    Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.

    Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

  5. Cover dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

    Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

  6. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

    Serve hot.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and texture.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, use spicy Italian sausage.
  • Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg