Description
Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Spinach
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz rigatoni pasta
2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Layer:
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Rigatoni:
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine and Layer:
Toss the cooked rigatoni with the creamy tomato-spinach sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown finish, broil for 2-3 minutes.
Serve:
Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes. Serve hot and enjoy the gooey, cheesy deliciousness!
This dish is comfort food at its finest with stretchy melted cheese, hearty rigatoni, and a creamy tomato base. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you begin cooking the pasta. While the rigatoni boils in well-salted water, prepare your sauce. Use a large, deep skillet for the sauce to allow room for combining all ingredients later. Slowly whisk the heavy cream into the warm marinara to prevent curdling. Once the creamy sauce is simmering, add the spinach in batches, stirring until each batch wilts. After draining the al dente pasta, combine it directly in the skillet with the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Transfer to your prepared baking dish and top evenly with the cheese blend, covering all exposed pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta bake pairs beautifully with a crisp, simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti, complements the tomato and cheese flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: cook pasta al dente; create a creamy tomato-spinach sauce; combine pasta and sauce; top with mozzarella and Parmesan; bake at 375°F until bubbly (15-20 mins); optionally broil for browning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different pasta? Rigatoni’s tubes hold sauce well. Penne or ziti are excellent substitutes. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti.
How can I add more protein? Brown 1/2 pound of Italian sausage or ground beef and add it to the sauce. Cooked, shredded chicken also works well.
My sauce seems too thick. What should I do? Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. Stir it into the sauce to reach your desired consistency.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave with a splash of water, or cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: It will soften further in the oven. Cook only to al dente.
- Not seasoning the pasta water: Salt it generously, as it’s your first chance to flavor the pasta itself.
- Using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents: These can prevent smooth melting. For the best texture, shred your own cheese.
- Skipping the rest time: Letting the bake sit for 5 minutes allows the sauce to set slightly, making serving easier.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Spinach is the ultimate reliable comfort meal, balancing creamy richness with fresh greens. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both satisfying and straightforward. Its versatility for make-ahead meals and easy customization makes it a perfect addition to your weekly dinner rotation. Dig in and enjoy the delicious, bubbly results.