Three Cheese Baked Rigatoni

Name: Three Cheese Baked Rigatoni
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the delightful blend of three creamy cheeses baked to perfection with rigatoni pasta.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:14:30.128Z

This Three Cheese Baked Rigatoni is a comfort food classic that combines the rich flavors of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A savory blend of three cheeses for a flavor explosion
Baked to perfection with a crispy top layer
Comforting and satisfying for any pasta lover

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When you're looking for a dish that warms the soul, Three Cheese Baked Rigatoni is the answer. This comforting pasta dish combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a staple for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of cheeses that melt together beautifully, guaranteeing satisfaction with every forkful.

The use of rigatoni pasta, with its ridges and tube shape, allows for the marinara sauce and cheese mixture to cling perfectly. This ensures that you get a delightful mouthful of flavor in every bite. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

A Cheesy Delight

The trio of cheeses in this recipe is what sets it apart. Ricotta offers a creamy richness, mozzarella adds a gooey stretch, and parmesan brings a sharp nuttiness that elevates the dish. This combination creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. It's a cheese lover's dream come true!

Moreover, cheese is not just about flavor; it also contributes to the dish's texture. The melting cheeses create a luscious, creamy sauce that envelopes the rigatoni, while the baked top layer becomes wonderfully crispy. This contrast between the creamy interior and the golden crust provides a delightful eating experience.

Customization Options

One of the best parts about making Three Cheese Baked Rigatoni is the flexibility to customize the recipe to your liking. Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also incorporate cooked meats such as ground beef or sausage for a heartier dish.

If you're looking to lighten things up, consider using low-fat cheeses or whole-grain pasta. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on health. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to adapt this recipe to suit any dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Three Cheese Baked Rigatoni

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Combine with Marinara Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the marinara sauce and cheese mixture. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in for a treat! Three Cheese Baked Rigatoni stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked rigatoni. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience with Three Cheese Baked Rigatoni, consider pairing it with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta. Additionally, a crusty garlic bread is a classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.

When it comes to beverages, a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the dish beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon or a refreshing iced tea can cleanse the palate and enhance your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with penne or ziti if you prefer.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for rigatoni.