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
The Easiest Pesto Mozzarella Baked Rigatoni You'll Ever Make

Pesto Mozzarella Baked Rigatoni


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Ellen
  • Total Time: 45
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A hearty baked pasta dish blending pesto, marinara, and melty mozzarella for a flavorful, stress-free meal ready in under an hour.


Ingredients

Scale

12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1/3 cup basil pesto
1 can (24 oz) marinara sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder


Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain.
In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and olive oil.
Combine marinara, pesto, and Italian seasoning in a separate bowl.
In a large pan, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant; add cooked pasta and marinara-pesto mixture, tossing to coat.
Transfer to baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella.
Bake 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Substitute ziti or penne for rigatoni
Use cottage cheese for a lighter option
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veg
Top with fresh basil or toasted pine nuts before serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Category: veggies
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg