Baked Penne Rigati
A hearty baked pasta dish featuring penne rigati, Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Prepare penne rigati according to package directions.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked penne rigati, cooked and drained Italian sausage, pasta sauce, and 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese; mix well.
- Turn the mixture into a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish; cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Uncover, top with remaining 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped parsley.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and garlic to the sausage before mixing. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also mix in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This baked penne rigati pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter. For a heartier option, consider complementing it with Italian Brunch Casserole as a side for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the baked penne in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Penne Rigati contains roughly 679 calories, with 71g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (305% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (216% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1222mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne rigati is traditional, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like ziti or even rigatoni for a similar texture. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted according to the pasta type you choose.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this baked penne rigati gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. Also, check that your sausage and sauce are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.
What can I add to make it creamier?
For a creamier baked penne, add a cup of ricotta cheese or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. Stir it in with the pasta and sauce for a rich, velvety texture. This addition will elevate the dish, making it even more indulgent.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).