Get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of Baked Rigatoni with Chile Braised Vegetables that will elevate your weeknight dinners to a whole new level! This Italian-inspired dish is not only packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, but it also comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for busy families or anyone craving a delicious homemade meal. Imagine the rich, cheesy goodness mingling with the colorful medley of sautéed vegetables, all topped with a golden, bubbly crust. Trust us, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! So grab your apron and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests alike!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, etc.)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the rigatoni.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb of rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop 2 cups of mixed vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and 1 tablespoon of chili powder to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni pasta with the vegetable and tomato mixture. Stir in 1 cup of ricotta cheese and mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Transfer half of the rigatoni mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer.
- Layer the remaining rigatoni mixture on top, then finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and keep the dish moist.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the baked rigatoni from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly for easier serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Baked Rigatoni with Chile Braised Vegetables!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Vegetables: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also experiment with other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms based on your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the rigatoni will continue to cook in the oven, be sure to cook it just until al dente. This will prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
- Layer Wisely: When layering the rigatoni mixture in the baking dish, make sure to distribute the cheese evenly. This ensures that every bite is cheesy and delicious!
- Add Extra Spice: If you love heat, consider adding more chili powder or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture for an extra kick.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the baked rigatoni to rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven helps it set and makes serving easier. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to meld together even more!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
