Baked Rigatoni Recipe π
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this hearty Baked Rigatoni recipe, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a delightful potluck contribution. With a blend of cheesy goodness, savory vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite on your menu rotation. Let’s dive into the culinary adventure of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece!
Overview:
- Name: Baked Rigatoni
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: Adjust as needed
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 1 | Onion, diced |
| 1 | Green pepper, chopped |
| 1 can (28 oz) | Whole tomatoes |
| 1 can (8 oz) | Tomato sauce |
| 1 can (6 oz) | Tomato paste |
| 3/4 cup | Water |
| 1 clove | Garlic, minced |
| 1 | Bay leaf |
| 1 tsp | Sugar |
| 1 tsp | Dried oregano |
| To taste | Salt and pepper |
| 1/4 cup | Fresh parsley, chopped |
| 1 lb | Rigatoni pasta |
| 1 tbsp | Butter |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 1 cup | Ricotta cheese |
| 1 cup | Parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra for topping |
Instructions:
-
Prepare Tomato Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and chopped green pepper, cooking until tender.
- Stir in whole tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, minced garlic, bay leaf, sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce uncovered for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before moving to the next step.
-
-
Cook Rigatoni:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with butter for extra flavor.
-
Prepare Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, mix together eggs, ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
-
Assemble Baked Rigatoni:
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
- In a 13×9 inch casserole dish, combine the cooked rigatoni with the cheese mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the rigatoni mixture, spreading it out evenly.
-
Bake to Perfection:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the cheese is golden and bubbly on top.
-
Final Touch:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish, if desired.
-
Serve and Enjoy!
- Allow the Baked Rigatoni to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 493.6
- Fat: 20.4g
- Saturated Fat: 9.7g
- Cholesterol: 144.9mg
- Sodium: 1148.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 57.2g
- Fiber: 5.2g
- Sugar: 10.2g
- Protein: 22.6g
Recipe Notes:
- This Baked Rigatoni recipe is versatile and can be customized to your taste preferences. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach, for an extra nutritional boost.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Now, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey filled with warmth and flavor as you prepare this delightful Baked Rigatoni recipe!
