Stuffed Rigatoni

Introduction

Stuffed Rigatoni is a delicious, hearty Italian-inspired dish that brings together pasta tubes filled with a savory mixture of cheeses, meats, or mushrooms, baked to perfection in a flavorful sauce and topped with melted mozzarella or Parmesan. This dish is ideal for dinner parties or cozy family gatherings and is a true comfort food classic that can be adapted with various fillings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• Rigatoni: 1 pound of large rigatoni pasta
• Cheese Filling:
  • Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
  • Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, shredded
  • Mozzarella cheese: 3 cups, shredded (divided for filling and topping)
  • Optional: Goat cheese or Romano cheese for added flavor
• Meat Filling (Optional):
  • Ground beef or Italian sausage: 1 pound
  • Onion: 1, finely diced
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Herbs and Spices:
  • Fresh basil or parsley: for garnish
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
• Sauce: 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly to handle.
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. If using meat, cook the ground beef or sausage with diced onions and garlic until browned and fully cooked, then drain and mix into the cheese filling.
3. Stuff the Rigatoni: Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each rigatoni with the cheese mixture (and meat mixture if using). Arrange the stuffed pasta in a single layer in a baking dish or in a springform pan if making a rigatoni pie.
4. Layer and Bake: Pour a layer of marinara sauce over the stuffed pasta, then top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Conclusion

Stuffed Rigatoni is a comforting, flavorful dish that is sure to impress at any table. Whether filled with rich cheeses, seasoned meats, or hearty mushrooms, each bite is packed with Italian flavors that bring warmth and satisfaction. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted for vegetarian options by omitting meat or using plant-based substitutes. Enjoy this delicious stuffed pasta dish as the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.