Hello, dear pasta enthusiasts! 🍽️💕 Today, I’m beyond excited to share a heartwarming recipe that has quickly become a family favorite—Creamy Baked Rigatoni with Blush Roasted Pepper Sauce, inspired by the wonderful Laura Vitale. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, blending rich flavors with a touch of elegance.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover looking to customize, this baked rigatoni is sure to delight everyone at your table. I remember the first time I tried this recipe during a cozy winter night; the aroma of roasted peppers and melted cheese filled my kitchen, making it an instant hit! Let’s get ready to create a delicious masterpiece that’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or any day you need a comforting meal. 🌟🍅

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

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• Creamy Goodness: A luscious roasted pepper blush sauce that’s both rich and velvety 🥛🫑.
• Customizable: Perfectly vegetarian, yet easily adaptable with your favorite meats 🥓🍗.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps that make baking rigatoni a breeze, even for beginners 👩‍🍳✨.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, holiday feasts, or entertaining guests 🥳🍽️.
• Vibrant Flavors: A delightful blend of shallots, ricotta, and mozzarella that dances on your taste buds 💃🧀.

Ingredients

Gather these delightful ingredients to bring this creamy baked rigatoni to life! 🛒✨

For the Sauce:

• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Shallots: 2, finely chopped
• Fire-roasted red peppers: 2 cups, drained and chopped
• Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
• Heavy cream: 1 cup
• Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper: To taste

For the Pasta:

• Rigatoni: 12 ounces
• Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
• Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
• Fresh basil: For garnish (optional)

Pro Tip: For the best flavor, use high-quality fire-roasted red peppers and fresh herbs. 🌿

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Variations

• Add Some Meat: Incorporate cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or sliced chicken for a hearty twist 🍖.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute rigatoni with gluten-free pasta options available in stores 🌾🚫.
• Vegan Delight: Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella to create a delicious vegan version 🌱🧀.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some extra heat 🔥.

Instructions

Let’s create this creamy, dreamy baked rigatoni step by step! 😍🍝

1. Preheat and Prep:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

1. Prepare the Roasted Pepper Sauce:

• Add the chopped fire-roasted red peppers to the skillet. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
• Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it using an immersion blender until velvety smooth.

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated.

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1. Assemble the Dish:

• Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Pour half of the roasted pepper sauce over the pasta.
• Add the remaining pasta on top, followed by the rest of the sauce.
• Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top to create a golden, bubbly layer.

1. Bake to Perfection:

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
• For an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
• Serve warm and savor the comforting flavors! 🥰

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your rigatoni is cooked just right so it absorbs the sauce perfectly during baking without becoming mushy.
• Blend the Sauce: For a smoother texture, blend the roasted pepper sauce before combining it with the pasta.
• Cheese Choices: Use high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for the best melt and flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends!
• Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overfilling your baking dish to ensure even cooking and a beautifully crispy top.

How to Serve

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This baked rigatoni is a star on its own, but here are some delightful accompaniments to elevate your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with creamy pasta 🥖🧄.
• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish 🥗✨.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus for extra nutrients and color 🌱.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy sauce beautifully 🍷.

Presentation Tip: Sprinkle some extra Parmesan and freshly chopped basil on top for a pop of color and added flavor 🌿🧀.

Make Ahead / Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the baked rigatoni a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before popping it into the oven.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes wonderfully! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven until heated through.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delightful Creamy Baked Rigatoni with Blush Roasted Pepper Sauce that combines simplicity with luxurious flavors. This dish is a testament to how easy it can be to create restaurant-quality comfort food right in your own kitchen. The blend of roasted peppers, creamy cheeses, and perfectly baked pasta is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this rigatoni is bound to impress and satisfy every palate. 🌟🍝

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Have you tried this Creamy Baked Rigatoni with Blush Roasted Pepper Sauce? I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your delicious creations! Drop a comment below with your experience, tweaks, or any questions you might have. Pin this recipe to your boards for easy access and subscribe to my blog for more mouthwatering recipes that bring warmth and joy to your table. Let’s make every meal a celebration! 🥳💖

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FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh roasted peppers instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh roasted peppers will add a vibrant flavor and slightly different texture. Roast them yourself or buy them pre-roasted from the store.

Q: How can I make this dish vegan?
A: Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella substitutes, and ensure your pasta is vegan-friendly. There are delicious vegan cheese options available that melt beautifully.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
A: Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini would be wonderful additions. Sauté them with the aromatics for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
A: Rigatoni is ideal due to its sturdy shape that holds the sauce well, but you can use other short pasta like penne or ziti if you prefer.

Q: Is there a way to make the sauce less creamy?
A: Sure! Reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative for a lighter sauce.