As the holiday season swiftly approaches, bringing with it a whirlwind of activities and endless to-do lists, finding moments of calm and simplicity becomes a precious commodity. The months of November and December often feel like a blur, filled with planning, decorating, and the joyful chaos of festive gatherings. In this bustling time, the last thing anyone wants to worry about is an elaborate meal that requires hours in the kitchen and a mountain of dishes. This is precisely why we’re thrilled to share an absolutely delightful and incredibly easy Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs recipe, a true lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you need a hearty, comforting meal without the fuss.
Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs: Your Ultimate Weeknight & Holiday Lifesaver
There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy, and satisfying pasta dish to bring comfort and joy, especially when the weather turns colder and the holiday spirit fills the air. This particular recipe for baked rigatoni with mini meatballs truly embodies everything we love about simple, flavor-packed meals. It’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also gives you back precious time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters during this special time of year.
Our inspiration for this culinary gem comes straight from the December issue of Martha Stewart Living, specifically from their “Flavor-Packed Pasta” article on page 94. The magazine thoughtfully highlights several pasta recipes that boast a mere five key ingredients, making them ideal for anyone seeking efficiency without compromising on taste. This Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs recipe immediately caught our eye, promising a delicious outcome with minimal effort. The magazine even included handy pull-out recipe cards, making it even easier to keep these quick dinner ideas at your fingertips.
The first time we whipped up this Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs, the aroma alone was enough to earn rave reviews. My husband, John, walked through the door and immediately exclaimed, “I don’t know what you’re cooking, but I already know I’m going to love it just from how amazing the house smells!” That’s the kind of effortless satisfaction this dish brings – a true testament to its irresistible appeal. It transformed our kitchen into a haven of savory scents, hinting at the deliciousness to come.
For a dish like this, quality ingredients make all the difference. We consistently rely on Barilla® pasta, a pantry staple in our home. Pasta, in general, is our go-to for quick and easy dinners that everyone at the table will enjoy. The beauty of a well-made pasta is its versatility. You can toss a few fresh veggies, a rich sauce, and your favorite pasta together, and suddenly you have a complete meal. Not only does it make for a fantastic dinner, but the leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day – a win-win for busy schedules. Plus, fewer dishes mean more time for holiday cheer, which is always a bonus!
Why This Baked Rigatoni Recipe Is a Must-Try
In a world of complex culinary creations, the simplicity and profound flavor of this Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs stands out. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a thoughtful solution for anyone navigating the demands of modern life, especially during the festive season. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a prime spot in your cooking repertoire.
Effortless Elegance with Five Core Ingredients
The allure of a five-ingredient recipe is undeniable. While the full ingredient list for this dish is slightly more extensive when you factor in pantry staples like oil and spices, the core components that create its rich flavor profile are wonderfully minimal: spicy Italian sausage, garlic, whole peeled tomatoes, rigatoni, and mozzarella. This focus on essential ingredients not only simplifies your grocery shopping but also allows each flavor to shine through, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying experience without unnecessary complexity.
The Magic of Mini Meatballs
There’s something inherently delightful about mini meatballs. Unlike their larger counterparts, these bite-sized wonders cook more quickly and evenly, ensuring they are perfectly tender and flavorful in every mouthful. Formed from spicy Italian sausage, they infuse the tomato sauce with a robust, aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish. Their small size also makes them ideal for mingling with the rigatoni, ensuring a perfect meat-to-pasta ratio in every forkful.
A Symphony of Flavors: Spicy Italian Sausage & Rich Tomato Sauce
The foundation of this baked rigatoni lies in its incredibly flavorful sauce. The spicy Italian sausage, browned to perfection, forms the backbone, releasing its savory juices and creating a rich depth. Minced garlic adds a pungent warmth, while pureed whole peeled tomatoes provide a vibrant, slightly sweet acidity that balances the spice. Simmered together, these ingredients meld into a robust sauce that coats every piece of pasta, offering a truly indulgent experience that tastes like it’s been simmering all day, even though it’s ready in a fraction of the time.
Get Ready to Cook: Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs Recipe
This delicious Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs recipe is a fantastic easy comfort food option, perfect for busy evenings or a cozy family meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 516 kcal per serving
Author: Tammilee Tips
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- ¾ lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed, formed into ¾ inch meatballs
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced (about 5 tsp)
- 28 oz Whole peeled tomatoes with their juice, pureed in a food processor
- ½ lb Rigatoni
- ½ lb Mozzarella, ½ cut into small cubes, the rest thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
- Heat olive oil in a straight-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mini meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned all over, which should take about 8 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the meatballs and cook, stirring constantly, for about 45 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the pureed tomatoes and their juice. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the rich tomato and mini meatball sauce, then stir in the cubed mozzarella until well combined.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to an 8-inch baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with parchment-lined foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling warmly.
- Carefully remove the foil cover and arrange the thinly sliced mozzarella over the top of the pasta.
- Broil the dish for a few minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and turns a lovely golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Allow the baked rigatoni to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and prevents burns from the hot cheese and sauce. Enjoy!
Kitchen Tools
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Straight-sided skillet
- Food processor (optional, for pureeing tomatoes)
- Parchment paper
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition data for one serving:
- Calories: 516 kcal
- Fat: 29g (45% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 12g (75% Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 73mg (24% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 829mg (36% Daily Value)
- Potassium: 652mg (19% Daily Value)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (13% Daily Value)
- Fiber: 4g (17% Daily Value)
- Sugar: 7g (8% Daily Value)
- Protein: 24g (48% Daily Value)
- Vitamin A: 540IU (11% Daily Value)
- Vitamin C: 14mg (17% Daily Value)
- Calcium: 258mg (26% Daily Value)
- Iron: 3mg (17% Daily Value)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Rigatoni
Achieving the perfect Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs is simple, but a few expert tips can elevate your dish from great to unforgettable. Here’s how to make sure your pasta bake is a resounding success every time:
- Al Dente Perfection: When cooking the rigatoni, aim for al dente. Since it will bake in the oven, you want it to have a slight bite initially, as it will continue to cook and absorb flavors in the sauce. This prevents mushy pasta.
- Meatball Browning is Key: Don’t rush the browning of the mini meatballs. A good sear develops a rich flavor and texture that will carry through the entire dish. Turn them often to ensure even browning on all sides.
- Tomato Quality Matters: Using good quality whole peeled tomatoes makes a significant difference. Pureeing them yourself ensures a smooth, luscious sauce base. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can simply crush them by hand.
- Cheese, Please! The mozzarella is crucial for that gooey, cheesy top. For a little extra zing, consider mixing in a small amount of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano with the mozzarella. When broiling, keep a very close watch; cheese can go from golden brown to burnt in seconds!
- Spice it Up (or Down): If spicy Italian sausage is too much for your family, feel free to substitute with mild Italian sausage or even a blend of ground beef and pork. For those who love heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce can amplify the warmth.
- Add Some Green: While not traditionally part of this specific recipe, tossing in some fresh spinach or chopped basil at the end of the simmering process can add freshness and an extra nutritional boost.
- Make Ahead Magic: This baked rigatoni is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish (without broiling the top cheese) and refrigerate it for up to two days. When ready to bake, add a little extra cooking time and then proceed with the broiling step.
- Serving Suggestions: This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette and a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Beyond the Plate: Why Comfort Food Matters
In the grand scheme of holiday preparations and daily routines, dishes like this Baked Rigatoni with Mini Meatballs do more than just fill our bellies. They nourish our souls, offering a moment of comfort and connection. The act of sharing a home-cooked meal, especially one that requires minimal stress to prepare, fosters warmth and togetherness. It reminds us that even amid the busiest times, we can find joy in simple pleasures.
Speaking of simple pleasures, sometimes life throws delightful, unexpected distractions our way. Amidst researching recipes, I stumbled upon pink flamingo sheets from the Whim by Martha Stewart Collection. While they have absolutely nothing to do with baked rigatoni, the thought of cuddling up with playful pink flamingos every night brought an instant smile to my face. It’s a whimsical reminder that even when our days are packed with responsibilities and holiday planning, it’s essential to embrace those little sparks of joy and self-care. Perhaps those flamingo sheets will magically appear on our doorstep soon, serving as a charming counterpoint to the savory satisfaction of our weeknight pasta!
Now, back to the killer pasta recipe, and no more talk about cute pink flamingos… for now.
More Delicious Pasta Recipes to Explore
If you’re a pasta enthusiast like us, you’ll be thrilled to discover even more easy and delicious recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Here are some of our other favorite pasta dishes that consistently earn rave reviews:
- Tex Mex Velveeta Shells and Cheese: A creamy, cheesy delight with a Tex-Mex twist that’s sure to be a family favorite.
- Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole: Soft gnocchi baked in a rich, cheesy sauce for ultimate comfort.
- Beef & Mushroom Pasta Casserole: A hearty and savory casserole, perfect for a slow-cooked, effortless meal.
- Slow Cooker Taco Pasta: All the flavors of your favorite tacos combined into a comforting pasta dish, made easy in your slow cooker.
- Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole: A simple yet satisfying casserole featuring tender chicken and plenty of cheese.
Do you love recipes of all kinds? Make sure to check out our extensive collection of copycat recipes, delectable dessert recipes, and our incredibly convenient CrockPot Recipes, perfect for hands-off cooking.
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Recipe originally shared on December 9, 2016. Updated October 2020 and further enhanced for clarity and SEO in November 2023.