Rigatoni Pasta

Triticum aestivum (Wheat source) Pasta

Rigatoni Pasta Pasta

At a Glance

  • Category Pasta

The Forktionary Angle

"The ultimate vehicle for robust, chunky sauces."

Definition

A tubular pasta characterized by its large, ridged, and often slightly curved shape, perfect for capturing hearty sauces inside and out.

Global Popularity One of the most widely consumed pasta shapes globally, especially in central and southern Italy.
Optimal Cooking Time Typically cooks al dente in 10-14 minutes, depending on thickness and brand.
Surface Area The ridges (righe) and large opening increase surface area for sauce adherence and retention.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Rigatoni Pasta are:

Neutral starchy (when plain) takes on sauce flavors

Chef’s Secret

Always finish cooking rigatoni directly in its sauce for the last minute or two; it allows the pasta to absorb flavor and release starch, binding the sauce.

Best Substitutes

Penne

similar shape but smaller
Ratio 1:1

Ziti

smooth tubes
Ratio 1:1

Paccheri

larger tubes
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for pasta made from 100% durum wheat semolina for best texture and flavor retention during cooking.

Recipes Using Rigatoni Pasta

Beef Course One Dish Meal Beef

Baked Rigatoni With Meat Sauce

This irresistible Baked Rigatoni with Meat Sauce recipe is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters! Quick, easy, and easily doubled or tripled for a family feast or potluck, this comforting classic from Food & Wine magazine will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready for a rich, flavorful explosion of pasta, meat, and melted mozzarella – pure comfort food perfection! (70 minutes simmer & bake time)

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Dietary Preparation Cuisine Beginner Cook

American Sub Salad

Ditch the boring pasta salad! This vibrant American Sub Salad is a game-changer, perfect as a light lunch, satisfying side dish for your next BBQ, or a delicious standalone meal. Easy to customize with your favorite toppings, this recipe is quick, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unique and delicious twist on a classic!

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European Course Poultry Time To Make

Bacony Blue Cheese Chicken Pasta

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Bacony Blue Cheese Chicken Pasta! Caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness, perfectly complementing the salty bacon and tangy blue cheese. Juicy chicken breasts and perfectly cooked pasta create a symphony of flavors in this 55-minute masterpiece. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Time To Make Cuisine Pasta Rice And Grains Course

Baked Rigatoni With Bechamel Sauce

Giada De Laurentiis' irresistible baked rigatoni is elevated with a rich, creamy béchamel sauce, savory prosciutto, and nutty fontina cheese. This comforting pasta bake makes a fantastic side dish or a satisfying main course – perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals! Get ready for cheesy, bubbly perfection!

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Pasta Main Dish Cuisine Time To Make

Baked Rigatoni With Four Cheeses

This decadent Baked Rigatoni with Four Cheeses is a family-friendly twist on Giada De Laurentiis's famous Farmer's Pasta! Creamy four-cheese sauce, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and crispy breadcrumbs create a dish that's both comforting and impressive. Easily adaptable and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

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Pork Pork Time To Make Pasta

Baked Rigatoni With Eggplant And Sausage

Tyler Florence's irresistible Baked Rigatoni recipe! This easy, family-friendly dish elevates classic baked ziti with tender eggplant, savory sausage, and a bubbly mozzarella topping. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Beef Beef Meat Main Ingredient

Baked Rigatoni With Meatballs

This comforting Baked Rigatoni with Meatballs recipe is a Southern Living-inspired classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Enjoy tender rigatoni in a rich tomato sauce brimming with flavorful turkey meatballs. For a time-saving shortcut, feel free to use frozen meatballs!

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Main Dish Course 60 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient

Baked Rigatoni With Spinach Ricotta And Fontina

This cheesy, comforting baked rigatoni is a quick and easy weeknight meal inspired by Food & Wine magazine! Skip the stuffing and enjoy perfectly cooked rigatoni tossed in a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, topped with melted fontina, and baked to golden perfection. A faster, simpler take on classic cannelloni, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

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Course Pasta European Pasta Rice And Grains

Baked Rigatoni With Aurora Sauce

This baked rigatoni recipe features a vibrant Aurora sauce – a luscious blend of creamy béchamel, rich tomato puree, and a touch of parmesan. It's a simple, quick weeknight meal the whole family will adore! Ready in under 35 minutes, this comforting pasta bake is perfect for busy weeknights.

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Condiments Etc Beef Beans Main Ingredient

Beef Ragu With Beans

This comforting Beef Ragu with Beans recipe, inspired by a family favorite, delivers rich, slow-cooked flavors perfect for a cozy night in. Tender beef simmered with hearty beans and vibrant vegetables creates a succulent sauce ideal for pasta, polenta, or even as a delicious standalone dish. Get ready for a taste of tradition!

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Taste Mood American Winter Stove Top

Baked Rigatoni With Kalamata Olives

Indulge in this delightful baked rigatoni recipe! A symphony of savory Italian sausage, juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant basil, all baked to perfection in a creamy mozzarella and parmesan cheese sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Meat Pork Course Main Ingredient

Baked Rigatoni With Sausage

A hearty and flavorful baked pasta dish! This recipe combines tender rigatoni pasta, savory Italian sausage, crisp-tender broccoli, and rich marinara sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection in a cheesy casserole. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love. Get ready for a taste of comfort food heaven!

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Main Ingredient Oven Preparation Course

Baked Ricotta And Spinach Rigatoni

Dive into a cheesy, comforting explosion of flavor with Dave Lieberman's Baked Ricotta and Spinach Rigatoni! This irresistible casserole is packed with creamy ricotta, tender spinach, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, all baked to golden perfection. A family-friendly favorite that's guaranteed to become a weeknight staple.

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Course 4 Hours Or Less Time To Make Pasta Rice And Grains

Baked Rigatoni Cake

Indulge in this irresistible Baked Rigatoni Cake, a hearty and flavorful twist on classic pasta bake! Inspired by Martha Stewart's culinary genius, this recipe features perfectly cooked rigatoni layered with a rich meat sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. A show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party or a comforting weeknight meal, this baked pasta masterpiece is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Pork Pasta Pork Course

Acadian Rigatoni

Indulge in the fiery flavors of Acadian Rigatoni! This recipe features succulent spicy sausage (try hot Italian sausage!), sautéed vegetables, and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. Choose your adventure: enjoy a robust tomato-based sauce or elevate it to creamy perfection with a touch of cream and tomato paste. Easy to customize and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Preparation Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains Preparation

Pepperoni Rigatoni

Experience a flavor explosion with this cheesy, saucy Pepperoni Rigatoni! This comforting Italian-American classic is baked to perfection, creating a bubbly, golden-brown top. Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce – pure comfort food heaven!

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Course Main Ingredient Pork Sausage Crock Pot Slow Cooker

Baked Italian Sausage And Rigatoni

A comforting and flavorful slow cooker recipe! This Baked Italian Sausage and Rigatoni is brimming with juicy Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. A family favorite, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a delicious and satisfying meal.

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