This comforting casserole combines tender rigatoni with savory sweet Italian sausage and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Layers of ricotta and Parmesan add depth and tang, while a topping of mozzarella creates a golden, bubbly crust. It&# 226;ÂÂs a hearty, family-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet comes together easily. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish delivers warm, home-style Italian flavors in every bite. The balance of seasoned meat and mild cheeses makes it satisfying without being overpowering, ideal for those who love classic baked pastas with a robust texture and comforting warmth.
Rigatoni, Sausage & Cheese
Description
This comforting casserole combines tender rigatoni with savory sweet Italian sausage and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Layers of ricotta and Parmesan add depth and tang, while a topping of mozzarella creates a golden, bubbly crust. It&# 226;ÂÂs a hearty, family-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet comes together easily. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish delivers warm, home-style Italian flavors in every bite. The balance of seasoned meat and mild cheeses makes it satisfying without being overpowering, ideal for those who love classic baked pastas with a robust texture and comforting warmth.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375ðF (190ðC).
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Remove sausage meat from casings and place in a large skillet over medium heat with minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
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Brown the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
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In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
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Stir in flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for 1 minute.
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Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
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Pour a thin layer of the cheese sauce into the bottom of a 13x9-inch baking dish.
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Layer half the cooked rigatoni, half the sausage, half the ricotta cheese, and half the Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
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Pour half the remaining sauce over this layer.
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Repeat with remaining rigatoni, sausage, ricotta, and Parmesan.
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Pour remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle with grated mozzarella cheese.
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Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
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Broil for 1-2 minutes until the top is golden brown. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 935.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 59.9g93%
- Saturated Fat 25.7g129%
- Cholesterol 137.6mg46%
- Sodium 2330.6mg98%
- Total Carbohydrate 19.7g7%
- Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
- Sugars 13.6g
- Protein 71.8g144%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The original directions list ingredients like garlic, onion, flour, nutmeg, ricotta, and mozzarella in the steps but not in the main ingredient list. Ensure you have these on hand: 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 medium onion (chopped), 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 lb ricotta cheese, and 1/2 lb mozzarella cheese (grated).
For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage instead of sweet.
This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ðF or microwave individual portions.
