If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to throw together and sure to impress, look no further than Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese. This dish is a glorious marriage of hearty rigatoni, savory Italian sausage, and a lusciously creamy sauce thanks to the herby magic of Boursin cheese. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and brings everyone running to the table, forks in hand. Whether you’re serving a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this pasta bake delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese is that the ingredient list is refreshingly simple, yet each item plays a vital role in building up layers of flavor and texture. Gather these essentials, and you’re already halfway to pasta bliss!
- Rigatoni pasta: The perfect shape for catching every bit of that creamy, cheesy sauce in its ridges.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the sausage beautifully.
- Italian sausage (casings removed): Brings hearty, savory depth—use spicy or mild depending on your mood.
- Onion (chopped): Sautéed onions add a natural sweetness that balances the dish.
- Garlic (minced): Essential for that classic Italian aroma and punchy flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes: Forms the bright, tangy backbone of the sauce.
- Dried oregano: A must for that unmistakable Italian herb flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle kick—adjust to your heat preference.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste and bring out all the other flavors.
- Boursin garlic and herb cheese: The secret ingredient—melts into the sauce for irresistible creaminess and flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that gooey, cheesy top we all crave in a pasta bake.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish and helps brown the top.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A sprinkle of herbs adds color and a burst of freshness right before serving.
How to Make Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente—this means the pasta should still have a little bite, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set it aside. This ensures your Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese won’t turn mushy and will hold up beautifully under all that luscious sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into bite-size pieces as it cooks. Once browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. These steps build the savory base for your Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing all those flavors to come together into a rich, slightly zesty sauce that will coat every noodle perfectly.
Step 4: Melt in the Boursin Cheese
Now for the creamy magic! Add the Boursin garlic and herb cheese straight into the simmering sauce. Stir until it’s completely melted and the sauce takes on a silky, luxurious texture you’ll want to eat by the spoonful. This is the signature element that makes Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese so special.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your drained rigatoni right into the skillet with the sausage and Boursin sauce. Toss everything together so each piece of pasta is coated in that creamy, savory goodness. Every forkful will be loaded with flavor!
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden. The anticipation as it bakes is almost as good as the first bite!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
When your Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese emerges from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley if you like. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a hint of brightness right at the end.
How to Serve Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese
Garnishes
A scattering of fresh basil or parsley is classic, but don’t stop there—try a dusting of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for even more flavor. If you love a bit of crunch, some toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts can be a fun twist. The right garnish not only looks gorgeous but also elevates each bite of your Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta bake is a showstopper on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a zingy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal veggies. Don’t forget a warm, crusty loaf of bread to mop up every last bit of that creamy sauce! A glass of red wine also makes for a delightful Italian-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For weeknight dinners, simply serve straight from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style vibe. For something special, scoop individual portions into shallow bowls and top with an extra dollop of Boursin. Hosting a party? Try assembling the pasta in mini ramekins for adorable, personalized servings of Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer any extras to an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as crave-worthy as the first serving!
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, assemble everything up to the baking step, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the cook time.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the pasta with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For smaller portions, the microwave works just fine—just add a splash of water or milk to keep the pasta from drying out and heat in 1-minute bursts until steaming.
FAQs
Can I make Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate it for up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to cook, just bake as directed, adding about 5 extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What’s the best way to make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the Italian sausage for your favorite plant-based sausage or use extra sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture and deep, savory flavor. This simple change keeps all the creamy, cheesy goodness of the original Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! While rigatoni is classic for its ability to hold sauce, penne, ziti, or even shells make great alternatives. Just choose a shape with enough nooks and crannies to catch all that delicious Boursin-infused sauce.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Definitely—just substitute your favorite gluten-free rigatoni and double-check that your sausage is gluten-free as well. You’ll still get all the creamy, cozy satisfaction of the original dish.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until hot, or microwave individual servings with a splash of water to keep the pasta tender.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese is it. With its creamy sauce, flavorful sausage, and bubbly, golden cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
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Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese is a creamy, comforting Italian-inspired pasta bake featuring tender rigatoni, savory Italian sausage, and rich Boursin garlic and herb cheese. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 (5.2-ounce) package Boursin garlic and herb cheese
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the pasta later.
- Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Boursin Cheese: Add the Boursin garlic and herb cheese to the skillet. Stir until it melts completely and incorporates into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy sausage sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving. Enjoy your comforting baked rigatoni!
Notes
- You can substitute spicy Italian sausage for added heat.
- For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage alternatives.
- Prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking; increase baking time by 5 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
- Use gluten-free rigatoni and sausage to make this dish gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
