Baked Caprese Rigatoni is a simple, cheesy pasta bake bursting with fresh flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Hey friend! Get ready to have your taste buds sing with this Baked Caprese Rigatoni recipe. This dish is not your ordinary pasta; it’s a whole combination of flavors with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all baked to perfection.
It’s so simple to make, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Let’s get cooking!
Utensils You Need:
Gather these tools to create this delicious pasta dish:
- Large pot
- Colander
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
The Recipe
Baked Caprese Rigatoni
Ingredients
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, chopped basil, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and serve warm.
Notes
- If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can use regular tomatoes, diced.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the pasta, such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.
- For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cook method: Baking
Season: All seasons
Alternative Ingredients:
If you don’t have some ingredients, you can substitute them with these alternatives:
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Rigatoni pasta | Penne or ziti pasta |
| Cherry tomatoes | Diced tomatoes |
| Fresh mozzarella | Shredded mozzarella |
| Fresh basil | Dried basil |
What to Serve with Baked Caprese Rigatoni:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, but rigatoni or penne work best to hold the sauce.
Can I freeze leftover baked Caprese rigatoni?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and omit the balsamic glaze.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to make it a heartier meal.
