Baked Rigatoni with Italian Sausage, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dinner that hits all the right notes, you’ve got to try this Baked Rigatoni with Italian Sausage, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender rigatoni pasta, savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese baked to golden bubbly perfection. Every bite delivers layers of flavor and texture that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend treat, this is a dish that brings family and friends together with smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this dish just right is all about using simple, quality ingredients that work beautifully together. Each item plays a key role—from the hearty Italian sausage adding bold flair, to the creamy mozzarella creating that irresistible melt factor, and the perfectly cooked rigatoni holding it all together.

• 16 ounces rigatoni pasta: The ridged tubes are perfect for holding onto sauce and cheese for every bite.
• 16 ounces Italian sausage: Adds savory, spiced richness—choose sweet or spicy according to your preference.
• 3 cups marinara sauce: The vibrant, tangy tomato base that brings moisture and depth.
• 8 slices mozzarella cheese: For melty, creamy goodness that blankets the rigatoni perfectly.
• 4 ounces grated parmesan cheese: A sharp, salty topping that crowns the dish with flavor and a golden finish.

How to Make Baked Rigatoni with Italian Sausage, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta to Perfection

Start by filling a large pot with about 6 quarts of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Salt the water generously to flavor the pasta as it cooks. Toss in the rigatoni and cook it just until al dente, meaning tender but still slightly firm. This ensures the pasta will hold its shape well once baked, absorbing just the right amount of sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Italian Sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet and brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks to get those rich, caramelized edges. Once cooked through, drain off any visible fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy, but make sure to keep all that flavorful browned bits in the pan—they’ll add so much depth.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Combine Ingredients

Set your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when your pasta and sausage are done. In a large baking dish, mix together the drained pasta and browned sausage. Pour the marinara sauce over the mixture, distributing it evenly so every rigatoni tube gets that bright tomato flavor.

Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Parmesan

Layer the mozzarella slices throughout the pasta and sausage mixture. This creates pockets of ooey-gooey cheese that make the dish so irresistible. Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan evenly over the top, which will melt and brown beautifully in the oven, adding a savory crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Pop the baking dish into the oven for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden and bubbling with cheese. The aromas filling your kitchen at this point are enough to make anyone’s mouth water!

How to Serve Baked Rigatoni with Italian Sausage, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Baked Rigatoni with Italian Sausage, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe, try garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan for extra saltiness and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley. This adds vibrant color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

This dish shines best when served alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar salad. Garlic bread or warm crusty Italian bread is a perfect companion to mop up all the luscious sauce and melted cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small, oven-safe ramekins for a personal touch. You can also turn this into a layered casserole by alternating pasta, sausage, sauce, and cheese in a deep dish before baking. Either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover Baked Rigatoni with Italian Sausage, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating works best in an oven to keep that cheesy top from becoming gummy.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Assemble it fully but don’t bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake straight from the freezer—just add extra baking time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, and warm for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the texture and flavor balance.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Ground beef works well if you prefer a milder flavor. Just season it with some Italian herbs and garlic to capture the sausage’s essence.

What type of marinara sauce is best for this recipe?

A classic, flavorful marinara made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs is ideal. Whether homemade or store-bought, choose a sauce that isn’t too watery so the baked rigatoni stays nice and saucy without being soggy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free rigatoni or another gluten-free pasta shape. Just watch the cooking time as gluten-free pasta can cook differently, and ensure your marinara sauce and sausage don’t contain hidden gluten ingredients.

Is there a way to prepare this recipe without baking?

If you’re short on time, you can skip the oven step by mixing hot pasta, sausage, sauce, and cheese together, then serving immediately. The cheese won’t be melted and bubbly but it still tastes delicious and comforting.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Choose a spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce to give the dish a nice kick. You can also sprinkle crushed chili flakes on top before baking for extra heat.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Rigatoni with Italian Sausage, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe is hands-down one of those dishes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s easy to make but feels special, packed full of flavors that satisfy and comfort every time. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic! So grab those ingredients and get ready to bake your next favorite meal.

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