Seafood Rigatoni
Seafood Rigatoni combines tender pasta with spicy red pepper sauce, succulent shrimp, and gooey mozzarella for a hearty, flavorful Italian-inspired dish perfect for seafood lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to box instructions.
- Shell and devein the large shrimp.
- Wash the scallops.
- In a 10 x 16-inch glass casserole, layer cooked pasta, seafood sauce, and cheese.
- Repeat the layering process one more time.
- Bake in a 400°F oven until cheese is melted and lightly browned, about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Let cool for about 20 minutes before cutting into sections and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the seafood sauce. You can substitute the mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses for a richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, swap out half the cream sauce with vegetable broth. Ensure the shrimp are fresh for the best taste, similar to using quality ingredients in Zuppa Di Pesce.
Serving Suggestions
This Seafood Rigatoni pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the dish perfectly. For an Italian-themed dinner, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Shrimp Scampi And Capellini to create a delightful multi-course experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seafood Rigatoni contains roughly 392 calories, with 32g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (215% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 903mg per serving (39% 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 other types of seafood in this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other seafood such as scallops or mussels. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as different seafood may require different cooking durations to ensure they remain tender and flavorful.
Is it necessary to bake the rigatoni?
Baking helps meld the flavors together and creates a deliciously cheesy top layer. However, if you're short on time, you can skip baking and serve the layered rigatoni straight from the stovetop. Just combine the cooked pasta, sauce, and cheese in a pot and heat until melted.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead by assembling it, then covering and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow additional time for baking if it's coming directly from the fridge, and ensure it's heated through before serving.
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).