Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Baked Rigatoni with Turkey Sausage and Mozzarella

Baked Rigatoni with Turkey Sausage and Mozzarella

  • Author: Jonathan
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Baked Rigatoni with Turkey Sausage and Mozzarella (plant-based) is a comforting and flavorful dish combining rigatoni pasta with savory turkey sausage, smoky turkey slices, and creamy melted mozzarella (plant-based). Baked to a golden perfection, this recipe offers a delicious blend of cheesy goodness and smoky notes perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta

Meat and Cheese

  • 8 oz turkey sausage
  • 6 oz smoked turkey slices
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella (plant-based)

Sauce

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (canned)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving one cup of pasta water for the sauce if needed.
  2. Prepare the Sauce with Turkey Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent. Crumble the turkey sausage into the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and apple cider vinegar (natural). Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend flavors and thicken.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Incorporate fresh basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it using reserved pasta water.
  4. Assemble the Baked Rigatoni: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and pour the rigatoni mixture into it. Nestle smoked turkey slices evenly among the pasta, then cover generously with shredded mozzarella (plant-based).
  5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the mozzarella (plant-based) is melted, bubbling, and the top is golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving to fully enjoy the flavors.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Brown the sausage well to enhance flavor complexity.
  • Use fresh basil and oregano for brighter flavor.
  • Allow the dish to rest briefly after baking for better texture and easier serving.
  • Adding smoked turkey slices provides a smoky texture contrast to the creamy cheese and tender pasta.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: baked rigatoni, turkey sausage, mozzarella plant-based, smoked turkey slices, comfort food, easy dinner

Find it online: https://familycookspot.com/baked-rigatoni-with-turkey-sausage-and-mozzarella/