Baked Rigatoni with Italian Sausage and Fennel
Baked rigatoni with Italian sausage and fennel is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the hearty flavors of sausage with the subtle sweetness of fennel. This classic Italian-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of tender pasta, savory sausage, and aromatic fennel creates a satisfying and indulgent meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
1 hr
Total Time:
1 hr 25 mins
Servings:
8
Yield:
8 servings
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until almost tender, about 10 minutes.
Step 2
Fry the sausages in a large skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until cooked through, about 15 minutes. Remove from the skillet, cool slightly and slice into rounds. Add the garlic, fennel and onion to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes, then add the roasted red peppers, basil, sliced sausage and pasta sauce. Heat through over low heat until warmed.
Step 3
Combine the pasta with the sauce and vegetables in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the mozzarella, Parmesan and Asiago cheeses over the top. Garnish with a few fennel leaves left from the bulb. Cover with aluminum foil.
Step 4
Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, then remove the aluminum foil. Set the oven to broil, and cook for another 5 minutes or until cheese is browned.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
500
Calories
19g
Fat
57g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Complement
The key to this dish is using high-quality Italian sausage and fresh fennel to maximize the flavors in the dish. The sausage adds a rich and meaty element, while the fennel provides a slightly sweet and aromatic undertone. When combined with the rigatoni pasta and a rich tomato sauce, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, baked rigatoni with Italian sausage and fennel is a delicious and satisfying option that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
