Description
Delicious Baked Sausage and Cheese Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort dish that combines savory sausage, gooey cheese, and tender rigatoni for a mouthwatering experience. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, featuring a creamy sauce enveloping the pasta and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden, bubbly finish. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare this delightful meal in no time. The inviting aroma as it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating their first bite. Enjoy this dish alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned; drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine heavy cream, garlic powder, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan; stir well.
- Mix cooked rigatoni with sausage and pour cream mixture over; combine gently.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheeses, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavor variations.