Save to Pinterest A hearty Italian-American casserole featuring rigatoni pasta, savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked under a blanket of melted cheese.
This dish quickly became a family favorite at our Sunday dinners because of its bold flavors and the way the cheese melts into the sauce. The colors from the bell peppers make the casserole look so inviting.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1 pound (450 g) rigatoni
- Meats: 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, sliced, 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced, 1 green bell pepper, sliced, 1 medium yellow onion, diced, 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Sauce: 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cheeses: 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Other: 2 tablespoons olive oil, Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook the Rigatoni:
- Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the onion and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Combine Sausage and Sauce:
- Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Mix Pasta with Sauce:
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked rigatoni with the sausage and pepper sauce.
- Layer and Add Cheese:
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Top with remaining pasta and finish with the rest of the cheeses.
- Bake:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Finish and Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs and serving.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping layer the cheese and pasta, and they always ask for seconds. It's become our go-to for celebrations and holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a memorable meal. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Warm individual servings in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides around 610 calories, 27 g of fat, 62 g of carbohydrates, and 29 g of protein. Perfect for hungry appetites and sharing.
Save to Pinterest This rigatoni bake is true comfort food and will surely become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite with family and friends!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different sausage type?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausage works well for a lighter option and adds a different flavor profile.
- → Do the peppers need to be sautéed first?
Sautéing the peppers ensures they are tender and flavorful before baking with the pasta and sauce.
- → What cheeses are best for topping?
Mozzarella provides a melty texture, while Parmesan adds a savory, nutty finish to the dish.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Assemble the dish ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- → How do I make it spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage and increase red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- → Is there a vegetarian version?
Omit sausage and add mushrooms or spinach for a meat-free alternative packed with flavor.