Baked Rigatoni With Aurora Sauce Recipe

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.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 643.4 kcal
Protein 50g
Rating 4.7 (6 Reviews)
Baked Rigatoni With Aurora Sauce 83

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Baked Rigatoni With Aurora Sauce

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How to Make Baked Rigatoni With Aurora Sauce

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Cook 1 pound rigatoni pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. **Make the Béchamel:** Melt 6 tablespoons (85g) butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 6 tablespoons (70g) all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (roux).
  4. Gradually whisk in 4 cups (950ml) whole milk, stirring continuously until smooth and thickened. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. **Make the Aurora Sauce:** Stir in 1 (24 ounce) jar of tomato puree, 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper into the béchamel sauce. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
  6. **Assemble the Bake:** In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked pasta with the Aurora sauce and 1 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. **Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese with 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons (30g) melted butter.
  9. Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta. Dot with 1 tablespoon of butter.
  10. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

34 g

Sugar

14g

Fat

86g

Carbs

22g