Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake

Name: Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casing removed; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Favorite Comfort Food

This Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. The combination of spicy sausage, gooey cheese, and al dente pasta will leave everyone wanting more!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-01T20:54:30.177Z

This Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake brings together the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the comforting texture of baked pasta. It's an easy dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful kick from spicy sausage that tantalizes your taste buds
Cheesy, gooey goodness that brings comfort to every bite
Quick to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake is sure to impress. It's a dish that brings everyone together, filled with flavors that resonate with comfort and warmth. The robust taste of spicy sausage, combined with the richness of cheese, creates a satisfying meal that will leave your guests raving about it long after the last bite.

This recipe is versatile enough to adapt for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. You can easily double the ingredients for a larger crowd, ensuring that everyone gets their fill of this delicious bake. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal that caters to all tastes.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake is its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. The use of rigatoni pasta ensures that every bite is filled with sauce and flavor, while the baking process melds the ingredients beautifully, creating an irresistible crust of melted cheese on top.

Preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The savory aroma of the baking dish will fill your home, inviting everyone to the table and setting the stage for a delightful meal. Even novice cooks will find success with this recipe, thanks to its clear instructions and forgiving nature.

Customize to Your Liking

Feel free to modify this recipe to suit your palate or dietary preferences. If spicy sausage isn't your favorite, you can substitute it with mild sausage or even a plant-based alternative. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can also enhance the nutritional value and add extra flavor. This flexibility makes it a fun dish to experiment with, allowing you to tailor it to your family's tastes.

For cheese lovers, consider adding a blend of cheeses, like provolone or cheddar, for a unique twist. You can also sprinkle herbs like thyme or parsley for added freshness. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can create a new favorite version of this classic dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casing removed
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the spicy Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Mix Pasta and Sauce

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce, mixing well. Transfer to a baking dish.

Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Bake

To ensure your Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake comes out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooking the pasta initially can lead to a mushy texture once baked. Additionally, don’t skip the step of letting the dish cool slightly before serving; this allows the cheese to set, making it easier to portion.

Another great tip is to cover the baking dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking. This helps the cheese melt evenly without burning. You can remove the foil for the last few minutes to achieve that golden, bubbly top that everyone loves. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final result.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in for a treat! Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked dish before or after baking. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes for a convenient meal option that can save you time on busy days.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the bold flavors of the Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Alternatively, garlic bread or a warm baguette are perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.

For beverage pairings, a medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, works beautifully with the savory components of the bake. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a homemade iced tea to cleanse your palate between bites. These thoughtful pairings can elevate your dining experience and make your meal even more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with penne or ziti if you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I freeze the Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover tightly and it will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad and garlic bread make great accompaniments to this bake.