Craving something hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting? Baked Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Casserole checks all those boxes. This easy-to-make dish combines tender pasta, bold Italian sausage, and a rich tomato-based sauce with just the right amount of spice. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting guests, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

1. Full of Flavor

The spicy Italian sausage adds heat and depth, while a mix of aromatic vegetables and herbs enhances every bite.

2. Easy to Make

With straightforward steps, this casserole comes together without a fuss, even on busy weeknights.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients for Baked Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Casserole

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Butter	1 tbsp	Adds richness to the base
Garlic	1–2 cloves, minced	Enhances aroma and flavor
Yellow onion	Half, minced	Provides sweetness and depth
Celery	2 stalks, minced	Adds crunch and balances flavors
Carrots	2, minced	Adds a touch of natural sweetness
Spicy Italian sausage	12 oz	Brings heat and savory flavor
Dried oregano	1 tsp	Adds a hint of earthiness
Red pepper flakes	1/2 tsp	Enhances the spice level
Salt	1 1/2 tsp	Balances the flavors
Black pepper	1/2 tsp	Adds mild heat and complexity
Red wine	1/2 cup	Enhances depth and acidity
San Marzano tomatoes	28 oz can	Forms the rich tomato base
Italian dressing (optional)	1/4 cup	Adds a zingy twist
Rigatoni	10–12 oz	The hearty pasta that holds it all together
Parmesan or basil (for topping)	To taste	Adds a fresh or nutty finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

1. Mince the garlic, onion, celery, and carrots.
2. Remove the casings from the Italian sausage, if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and aromatic.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

1. Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
2. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

1. Pour in the red wine and let it simmer until it reduces slightly, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in the canned San Marzano tomatoes along with their juices.
2. Add the optional Italian dressing for a zingy touch.
3. Let the sauce simmer for 20–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Cook the Rigatoni

1. Boil the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine the rigatoni with the sauce in the skillet or a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Top the casserole with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling.

Tips for Success

1. Use High-Quality Tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes offer the best flavor for sauces.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Undercook it slightly, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Layer for Extra Flavor: Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese between layers of pasta for a cheesier casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this casserole with a crisp Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Serve with a loaf of crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
• Complement with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Zinfandel.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	15g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	600mg

FAQs About Baked Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Casserole

1. Can I Use a Different Pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or any tubular pasta works well for this casserole.

2. How Do I Make It Less Spicy?

Opt for mild Italian sausage and reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

3. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

4. Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Yes, store the cooled casserole in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

5. What Can I Add for Extra Vegetables?

Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms are excellent additions. Sauté them with the other vegetables for best results.

6. How Do I Make It Gluten-Free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion: Comfort Food at Its Best

When you’re in the mood for something hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, Baked Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Casserole is the perfect choice. Its layers of spicy sausage, tender pasta, and rich sauce make every bite a delight.

Try It Tonight!

Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Share this recipe with family and friends—they’ll thank you for it!

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