Rigatoni is a versatile pasta shape that can be used in many tasty dishes. Its large, ridged tubes are great for holding thick sauces and chunky ingredients. You’ll find lots of ways to enjoy rigatoni, from simple weeknight meals to fancy baked casseroles.

These 15 rigatoni recipes will give you plenty of ideas for your next pasta night. You’ll see options with meat, veggies, and creamy sauces. Some can be made quickly on the stovetop, while others are baked to bubbly perfection in the oven. No matter which you pick, you’re sure to end up with a satisfying meal.

1. Classic Tomato Rigatoni

This simple yet delicious pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser. You’ll love the combination of al dente rigatoni and rich tomato sauce.

Start by cooking the rigatoni according to package directions. While it cooks, prepare the sauce. Sauté onions in butter until golden, then add garlic and tomatoes.

Let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes to develop flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste.

Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed. Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

This classic recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

2. Rigatoni alla Vodka

Rigatoni alla vodka is a creamy pasta dish with a hint of alcohol. To make it, cook rigatoni in salted water until al dente.

For the sauce, sauté shallots and garlic in olive oil. Add vodka and let it reduce. Stir in tomato paste and cook until it darkens slightly.

Pour in heavy cream and simmer the sauce. Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat. Some recipes include sausage for extra flavor.

Finish the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. The result is a rich, flavorful pasta that’s perfect for a special dinner.

3. Baked Rigatoni with Sausage

Baked rigatoni with sausage is a comforting pasta dish you’ll love. To make it, cook rigatoni until al dente. Brown Italian sausage in a pan.

Mix the pasta with the sausage and marinara sauce. Pour into a baking dish and top with cheese. Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan work well.

Bake at 400°F until the cheese melts and turns golden. The result is a hearty meal with a crispy top and gooey center.

You can add extras like roasted red peppers or fresh basil for more flavor. This dish is great for feeding a crowd and can be made ahead of time.

4. Spicy Sausage Rigatoni

Spicy sausage rigatoni is a tasty and easy meal you can whip up in about 20 minutes. You’ll love the combination of chewy pasta tubes and flavorful sausage in a zesty sauce.

To make it, cook rigatoni according to package directions. While the pasta cooks, remove hot Italian sausage from its casing and brown it in a pan.

Add tomatoes, chili, and basil to create a simple yet punchy sauce. Mix in the cooked pasta and some of its cooking water to bring it all together.

The seasoning in the sausage adds extra flavor to the dish. You can switch things up by trying different types of sausage for variety.

5. Rigatoni Carbonara

Rigatoni carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that’s creamy and flavorful. To make it, start by cooking rigatoni in salted water until al dente.

While the pasta cooks, fry pancetta or guanciale until crispy. Set the meat aside but keep the rendered fat in the pan.

In a bowl, mix egg yolks, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. This will be your sauce.

Drain the pasta, saving some cooking water. Add the hot pasta to the pan with the fat and toss quickly.

Remove from heat and stir in the egg mixture. The residual heat will cook the eggs, creating a silky sauce. Add pasta water if needed for consistency.

Mix in the crispy meat and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade rigatoni carbonara!

6. Creamy Pesto Rigatoni

Creamy pesto rigatoni is a delicious pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of pesto with a smooth cream sauce. To make it, you’ll cook rigatoni pasta until al dente.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. Sauté garlic in butter, then add heavy cream, milk, and pesto. Stir and warm the mixture.

Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the sauce. Toss everything together until the rigatoni is well coated. The pasta’s ridges will help the creamy pesto sauce cling to each piece.

Serve your creamy pesto rigatoni hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This comforting meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

7. Four Cheese Rigatoni

Four Cheese Rigatoni is a creamy, comforting pasta dish. It combines rigatoni with a blend of four cheeses for a rich flavor.

You’ll typically use mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and goat cheese. These create a smooth, tangy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

This dish is easy to make and ready in about 30 minutes. It’s great for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and filling.

You can add Italian sausage for extra protein if you like. Some recipes include a crunchy breadcrumb topping for added texture.

8. Garlic Parmesan Rigatoni

This tasty dish combines rigatoni pasta with garlic and parmesan for a quick, flavorful meal. You can make it in just 20 minutes.

Start by cooking the rigatoni according to the package directions. While it cooks, sauté some veggies and chicken sausage in a pan.

Mix the cooked pasta with the veggie and sausage mixture. Add parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Serve the pasta in warm bowls. Top with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley if you like. This recipe makes enough for 4 people.

9. Beef and Mushroom Rigatoni

This hearty dish combines tender rigatoni with savory ground beef and earthy mushrooms. Start by browning the beef in a large skillet. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture.

Stir in minced garlic and your favorite pasta sauce. Let the mixture simmer while you cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the beef and mushroom sauce.

Toss everything together and top with grated Parmesan cheese. You can serve it immediately or bake it in the oven for a crispy top layer. This comforting meal is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a filling dinner.

10. Rigatoni with Zucchini and Basil

This dish combines the hearty texture of rigatoni with fresh zucchini and aromatic basil. Start by cooking the rigatoni in salted water until al dente.

While the pasta cooks, sauté sliced zucchini in olive oil until it softens and starts to brown. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Toss the cooked pasta with the zucchini, fresh basil leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese. A splash of pasta water helps create a light sauce.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or red pepper flakes. This simple yet tasty meal comes together quickly and makes great use of summer vegetables.

11. Lemon Ricotta Rigatoni

This zesty pasta dish combines creamy ricotta with bright lemon flavors. You’ll love how quickly it comes together in just one pot.

Start by cooking the rigatoni until al dente. While it boils, mix ricotta, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl.

Once the pasta is done, save some cooking water before draining. Add the ricotta mixture to the empty pot and stir in some pasta water to create a smooth sauce.

Toss the cooked rigatoni with the lemony ricotta sauce. The pasta will soak up all those delicious flavors. For extra freshness, try adding some wilted spinach or arugula at the end.

12. Chicken Alfredo Rigatoni

Chicken Alfredo Rigatoni is a creamy and comforting pasta dish. You’ll love the combination of tender chicken, al dente rigatoni, and rich Alfredo sauce.

To make it, cook the rigatoni in chicken broth for extra flavor. While the pasta cooks, sauté chicken until golden brown. Set the chicken aside and use the same pan to make the sauce.

Melt butter and cook garlic until fragrant. Add Alfredo sauce and heat through. Mix in the cooked pasta, chicken, and shredded mozzarella cheese.

For added texture and nutrition, you can include sautéed mushrooms or broccoli. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

13. Spinach and Artichoke Rigatoni

This tasty pasta dish combines creamy spinach and artichoke flavors with hearty rigatoni. You’ll love how quickly it comes together in just one pot.

Start by cooking the rigatoni according to package directions. While it boils, sauté garlic in oil, then add spinach and artichoke hearts.

Mix in cream cheese, Parmesan, and some pasta water to create a smooth sauce. Toss the cooked rigatoni with the spinach-artichoke mixture until well combined.

For extra cheesiness, top with mozzarella and broil briefly before serving. This comforting meal is ready in about 30 minutes.

14. Shrimp Scampi Rigatoni

Shrimp Scampi Rigatoni combines the best of Italian pasta with succulent seafood. You’ll love this tasty twist on a classic dish.

Start by cooking rigatoni pasta until it’s al dente. While the pasta cooks, sauté shrimp in butter and olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Once the shrimp turns pink, remove it from the pan. In the same pan, create a light sauce with white wine, lemon juice, and pasta water. Toss the cooked rigatoni and shrimp in this zesty sauce.

Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. The result is a perfect blend of tender pasta, juicy shrimp, and garlicky goodness.

15. Butternut Squash Rigatoni

This comforting pasta dish combines the rich flavor of butternut squash with rigatoni. Roast cubed butternut squash with garlic, shallots, and herbs for added depth.

Cook the rigatoni while the squash roasts. Blend some of the roasted squash into a creamy sauce. Mix in cheese like Parmesan or cheddar for extra richness.

Toss the pasta with the sauce and remaining roasted squash. Top with more cheese and fresh herbs if desired. This dish offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

You can customize it by adding pancetta or keeping it vegetarian. It’s an ideal meal for cool autumn evenings.

Origins of Rigatoni

Rigatoni has deep roots in Italian culinary history. Its distinctive ridged shape and name have interesting origins tied to regional traditions.

Historical Background

Rigatoni traces back to 14th century Italy. It first appeared in the Lazio region, which includes Rome. The name comes from the Italian word “rigare” meaning “to scratch” or “draw a line.” This refers to the grooves on the pasta’s surface.

Early rigatoni was made by hand. Pasta makers used special tools to create the ridges. These grooves help sauce stick to the pasta. Over time, different regions developed their own styles of rigatoni. Some made it slightly curved, while others created spiral ridges.

Cultural Significance

Rigatoni holds a special place in Italian cuisine. You’ll find it in many classic dishes from central and southern Italy. Its large, sturdy shape makes it ideal for hearty sauces and baked pasta dishes.

In Rome, rigatoni is a local favorite. You’ll often see it paired with traditional sauces like Amatriciana or Carbonara. These pairings showcase regional flavors and cooking styles.

Rigatoni’s popularity has spread beyond Italy. You can now find it in pasta dishes worldwide. Its versatility makes it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike.

Cooking Techniques

Mastering the right cooking techniques is key to perfect rigatoni dishes. These methods will help you achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your pasta.

Boiling Rigatoni Perfectly

Start with a large pot of salted water. Use 4-6 quarts of water per pound of pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the rigatoni. Cook for 10-14 minutes, stirring occasionally. Test a piece at the 10-minute mark. The pasta should be al dente – firm but not hard when bitten.

Drain the pasta in a colander, but don’t rinse it. The starch on the pasta helps sauce stick better. If you’re not using the pasta right away, toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Advanced Cooking Methods

Try baking rigatoni for a crispy top layer. Cook the pasta for 2-3 minutes less than package directions. Mix with sauce and cheese, then bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

For a one-pot meal, cook rigatoni directly in the sauce. Use less liquid than usual and stir often to prevent sticking. This method infuses the pasta with more flavor.

Grilling rigatoni adds a smoky taste. Boil the pasta until almost done, then toss with oil and grill in a basket for 2-3 minutes. Serve with grilled vegetables for a summer meal.