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, casings removed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

Spicy sausage rigatoni bake is a hearty, comforting dish that combines flavorful sausage with pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce, baked to perfection.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:15:27.973Z

This spicy sausage rigatoni bake is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, ideal for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The heat from the sausage complements the creamy sauce beautifully, making it a dish you'll want to make again and again.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and spicy flavor that warms your soul
Creamy sauce that perfectly coats the rigatoni
Golden, cheesy topping that adds a delightful crunch

      

A Comforting Classic

Spicy sausage rigatoni bake is more than just a meal; it's a comforting classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, where the aroma of savory sausage and melting cheese fills your kitchen. The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What makes this dish truly special is its balance of textures and tastes. The rigatoni pasta provides a sturdy base, while the rich sauce envelops each piece, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Topped with a golden layer of cheese, this bake not only satisfies hunger but also delights the senses.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of spicy sausage rigatoni bake is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a milder version, simply use sweet Italian sausage or omit the red pepper flakes. If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the mix.

This recipe also lends itself well to leftovers. The flavors deepen over time, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Just reheat in the oven or microwave, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the spicy sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the cooked rigatoni into the sauce until well combined. Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious spicy sausage rigatoni bake!

Tips for Perfecting Your Bake

To ensure your rigatoni bake turns out perfectly, be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy during baking. Additionally, allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes helps meld the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.

Don't be shy with the cheese! A generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan creates that coveted cheesy crust. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs or garlic powder on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your spicy sausage rigatoni bake with a fresh green salad is a great way to balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast and enhance the overall meal experience. You can also serve it with crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

For a complete dinner, consider complementing this dish with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or a bold Merlot. The wine's acidity and fruitiness will harmonize beautifully with the spicy flavors of the sausage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with penne or ziti if you prefer.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rigatoni bake. Just thaw and bake as directed when you're ready to enjoy.