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 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals

A comforting and flavorful dish that combines spicy sausage with rigatoni pasta, baked to perfection.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-01T20:38:30.803Z

This Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake is a hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends. The combination of spicy sausage, creamy sauce, and baked cheese creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful kick of spice that awakens your taste buds
Creamy and cheesy layers that create a satisfying texture
Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a hearty pasta bake. This Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. The combination of spicy Italian sausage and creamy sauce creates a symphony of tastes that will make you feel cozy from the inside out. Whether it's a chilly evening or a family gathering, this dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.

Rigatoni pasta serves as the perfect vessel for capturing the rich sauce. Its ridged surface allows for maximum sauce adherence, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor. Plus, the shape of the pasta holds up beautifully during baking, making it an ideal choice for this dish. With each forkful, you'll experience a delightful blend of textures that will keep you coming back for more.

A Crowd-Pleasing Dish

One of the best aspects of this Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake is its ability to feed a crowd with ease. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep for the week, this recipe can be doubled or halved without any hassle. Simply adjust the quantities, and you'll have a delicious meal ready to share with friends and family. It's a dish that encourages conversation and connection over a shared love of good food.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a milder sausage or want to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability makes it not only a go-to comfort food but also a canvas for creativity in the kitchen.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

If you're looking to save time, this Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake can be prepared in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the dish tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.

Additionally, this dish freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble the rigatoni bake in a freezer-safe dish and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious bake:

Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor in your dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the spicy sausage until browned. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Mix and Bake

Combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese. Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your delicious Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake!

Let the bake sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy pasta. Alternatively, warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate, making every bite enjoyable.

For those who enjoy a little extra heat, serve the dish with crushed red pepper flakes on the side. This allows guests to customize their spice level, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the dish just the way they like it. Don't forget a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese on top for an added layer of flavor!

Storing Leftovers

Storing leftovers from your Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Bake is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is a breeze; just pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

If you have a larger batch, consider dividing it into individual portions before storing. This makes it easy to grab a quick meal on busy days. Simply reheat and enjoy, making your life a little easier while still savoring the delicious flavors of this comforting dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape that holds sauce well can be used. Penne or fusilli are great alternatives.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The spiciness comes from the sausage. You can adjust the spice level by choosing mild sausage or adding less pepper.