Cheesy Rigatoni Bake
A comforting baked pasta dish featuring cheesy, tomato-sauced rigatoni with a creamy egg mixture, perfect for family dinners and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and salt, cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in milk and water, cooking until thickened.
- Stir in tomato sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, heating through.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs and add the sauce mixture.
- Add cooked pasta to the egg mixture, stirring to combine.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce mixture. If you're out of rigatoni, penne or ziti can work as great substitutes. You can also use low-fat milk for a lighter version. To enhance the flavor, try adding Italian herbs or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy rigatoni bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside a slice of Irene'S Quick Peanut-Butter Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Rigatoni Bake contains roughly 705 calories, with 27g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (71% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2003mg per serving (87% 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 prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rigatoni bake a day in advance. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. Bake it when you're ready, allowing a few extra minutes in the oven since it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze the cheesy rigatoni bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding additional time if needed.
What can I add to the recipe for extra flavor?
For added depth, consider mixing in cooked ground beef, sausage, or sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. You can also stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for some heat or fresh basil for a burst of freshness. These additions will elevate the dish even further.
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).