Baked Rigatoni with Ham and Feta Recipe
Description
Delight in this Baked Rigatoni with Ham and Feta, a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of cooked ham with the creamy goodness of feta and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite on your table. Serve it warm and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Recipe Details
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Category: Ham
- Keywords: Pork, Cheese, Meat, European, < 60 Mins, Beginner Cook, Easy
- Rating: 4.5 (10 reviews)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 669.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 30.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 176.5 mg |
| Sodium | 725.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 60.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Sugars | 4.7 g |
| Protein | 37.2 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | rigatoni pasta |
| 2 | cups cooked ham |
| 5 | plum tomatoes (chopped) |
| 1 | clove garlic (minced) |
| 1 ½ | cups feta cheese (crumbled) |
| 1 | cup mozzarella cheese (shredded) |
| 2 | teaspoons dried thyme |
| 1 | cup half-and-half |
| ½ | cup Parmesan cheese (grated) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take a 13x9x2 inch glass baking dish and generously spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the rigatoni from sticking.
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
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Combine the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, pour in the cooked rigatoni pasta. Next, add the cooked ham, chopped plum tomatoes, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and dried thyme. Using a spatula or spoon, gently mix everything together until well combined.
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Add the Creamy Element: Pour the half-and-half evenly over the pasta mixture. This will add a rich creaminess to the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss everything again to ensure the ingredients are well blended, particularly ensuring the cheeses are distributed throughout.
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Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Add Parmesan and Finish Baking: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish. Return it to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will create a deliciously golden and bubbly top.
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Serve: Once the Baked Rigatoni with Ham and Feta is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. Spoon generous portions onto plates and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of this delightful dish.
Tips for Serving
- Pair this dish with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
- For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil before serving.
Indulge in the rich flavors and creamy texture of this Baked Rigatoni with Ham and Feta recipe, and share it with your loved ones for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy!
