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Italian cuisine is renowned for its ability to blend simple ingredients into dishes that evoke warmth, nostalgia, and comfort. Whether it's a steaming bowl of pasta or a hearty risotto, the allure of Italian food lies in its rich flavors and homey appeal. One dish that perfectly embodies this spirit is the Rustic Italian Sausage Rigatoni Bake. This satisfying meal brings together the robust flavors of Italian sausage, the heartiness of rigatoni pasta, and a medley of cheeses, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Rustic Italian Sausage Rigatoni Bake

Indulge in the comfort of the Rustic Italian Sausage Rigatoni Bake, a perfect blend of rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Featuring robust Italian sausage, tender rigatoni pasta, and a medley of cheeses, this dish is a weeknight dinner hero. It's simple to prepare and can be made ahead, making it ideal for busy families or gatherings. Delight your taste buds and bring warmth to your table with this satisfying Italian classic. Enjoy the layers of flavor in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound rigatoni pasta

1 pound Italian sausage (can be sweet or spicy, casings removed)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary.

        Add Vegetables: To the skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

          Combine Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

            Mix in Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

              Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the sausage sauce until evenly coated.

                Layer in Baking Dish: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the rigatoni and sausage mixture. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the top, sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.

                  Repeat Layers: Add the remaining rigatoni mixture, followed by the remaining ricotta cheese, and top evenly with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

                    Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                      Garnish and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                        Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8