If you are craving a delightful and comforting Italian-inspired meal that truly hits all the right notes, then the Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta with flavorful Italian sausage, enveloped in a creamy, herb-laden sauce made irresistibly rich by the addition of Boursin cheese. It bakes to bubbly, golden perfection, creating a dish that’s both elegant enough for guests and cozy enough for a weeknight family dinner. Every bite offers a luscious harmony of savory sausage, tangy tomato, and luscious creaminess that feels like a warm hug from the inside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this baked rigatoni comes alive with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. From the sturdy rigatoni holding every bit of sauce, to the aromatic herbs in the Boursin cheese that elevate the whole dish, these components come together beautifully without fuss.
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta: The ridges and hollow centers hold onto the sauce perfectly for every savory bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps brown the sausage evenly.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed): Brings hearty flavor and a lovely savory depth to the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds a gentle sweetness and texture contrast when sautéed.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the sauce with that unmistakable aromatic punch.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Provides a bright, tangy base that balances the creamy cheese.
- 1 (5.2-ounce) package Boursin garlic & herb cheese: The star ingredient for luscious creaminess and fresh herb flavor.
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Silky smoothness that melds the sauce into a velvety dream.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that tie the flavors together beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth and spice.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts deliciously on top to create a golden, bubbly crust.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish under the bubbling mozzarella.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Brightens the dish with fresh, herbal notes and a pop of color.
How to Make Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s ready when your pasta mixture is assembled. Cook your rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water, but be sure to pull it out just before it hits al dente—this way, it will finish cooking beautifully in the oven while absorbing all those incredible flavors.
Step 2: Cooking the Sausage Mixture
While the rigatoni cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble in the Italian sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned and thoroughly cooked, which takes about 6 to 8 minutes. As the sausage browns, it develops a wonderful depth of flavor that forms the backbone of this dish.
Step 3: Building the Sauce
Next, add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aromatic goodness. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then crumble in the Boursin cheese, breaking it apart so it melts smoothly into the sauce. Pour the heavy cream or half-and-half into the pan along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then let everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is luxuriously creamy and well combined.
Step 4: Combining Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked rigatoni directly into the sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece evenly. Transfer this silky, sausage-filled mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure the pasta is spread out so it bakes evenly.
Step 5: Topping and Baking
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan all over the top, creating a rich, cheesy blanket. Bake the dish uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese melts into glorious golden bubbles. Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes—this helps everything set and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Once your baked rigatoni has cooled just enough, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley right before serving. Not only do fresh herbs bring a vibrant pop of color, but their bright, green aroma perfectly complements the richness of the dish.
Side Dishes
This baked rigatoni pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables for a touch of freshness. Garlic bread or a warm focaccia loaf also work wonders to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions in small oven-safe ramekins or mini skillets baked separately. You could also top each serving with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a subtle heat kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an excellent choice for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta casserole by placing portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will hold up in the freezer for up to 2 months—perfect for a busy night when you want homemade comfort food without the prep.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave individual servings, though oven reheating helps retain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! While rigatoni’s ridges and hollow centers make it ideal for holding the creamy sauce, penne, ziti, or even shells would work beautifully as well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant to keep it flavorful and satisfying.
What can I substitute for Boursin cheese?
If Boursin isn’t available, herbed goat cheese or cream cheese mixed with some garlic and herbs can be a great alternative to achieve creamy richness.
Can I prepare this dish vegan?
It’s doable with vegan sausage, plant-based cream, and vegan cheese substitutes. Keep in mind textures and flavors will vary slightly, but it can still be delicious.
How spicy is this dish with spicy sausage?
Using spicy Italian sausage adds a gentle warmth rather than overpowering heat, but you can always adjust by choosing mild sausage or by adding chili flakes to taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about the Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and herbaceous all baked into one bubbling casserole. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers pure deliciousness and a cozy feeling that’s hard to beat. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with every luscious mouthful just like I did!
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Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
This Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese is a hearty and creamy Italian-inspired pasta casserole, combining spicy or mild Italian sausage with aromatic garlic and herb Boursin cheese, simmered in a savory tomato sauce, then topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for an easy family dinner or a comforting meal any night of the week.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (5.2-ounce) package Boursin garlic & herb cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking in the oven.
- Cook Sausage and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the Boursin cheese, breaking it up in the skillet until it melts into a creamy sauce. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it becomes smooth and well blended.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce and toss well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated evenly with the creamy sausage tomato mixture.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the sauced pasta into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- You can use spicy sausage for a more robust flavor or ground turkey as a lighter alternative.
- If Boursin cheese is unavailable, herbed goat cheese or cream cheese can be used as a substitute to add creamy richness.
- To save time, the pasta can be cooked a day ahead and refrigerated, just rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- Leftovers store well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
