If you’re on the hunt for a rich and comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you have to try this Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe. The tender rigatoni noodles perfectly cradle a luscious sauce made creamy and flavorful by the signature Boursin garlic & fine herbs cheese, while savory Italian sausage brings a satisfying heartiness to the table. This baked pasta delight offers that incredible combination of melted cheeses and herbs, all bubbling golden from the oven—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe shines because the ingredients are simple yet thoughtfully selected, each lending something special—texture, flavor, or that irresistible cheesy richness.
- Rigatoni pasta (1 pound): The ridged tubes hold onto sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a touch of smoothness and helps brown the sausage to perfection.
- Italian sausage (1 pound, casings removed): Provides a savory, spiced base that’s full of personality.
- Small onion (diced): Brings a mild sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the entire dish with aromatic warmth.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 ounces): The vibrant base that keeps the sauce rich and tangy.
- Boursin garlic & fine herbs cheese (5.2 ounces): The star ingredient for a creamy, herbaceous twist unlike any other cheese.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds silkiness to the sauce, balancing acidity with richness.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a hint of savory herbiness classic to Italian cooking.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For just a whisper of heat to elevate the flavors.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Essential seasonings that tie everything together.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping you’ll love.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top.
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional): A fresh, fragrant touch that brightens the final dish.
How to Make Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and cooking the rigatoni in salted boiling water until it’s just al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains a perfect bite after baking. Drain and set it aside to be ready for mixing with that luscious sauce.
Step 2: Brown and Flavor the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, laying down that savory foundation for the dish.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
To the cooked sausage, add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for just 30 more seconds to release that fragrant aroma. Then, pour in crushed tomatoes and add the Boursin cheese, stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce’s creamy base.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings
Pour in the heavy cream along with oregano, red pepper flakes if you want a bit of spice, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, letting all these flavors come together in harmony.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss your cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the sauce, making sure every piece gets coated in that garlicky, creamy goodness.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. After baking, give it a rest for 5 minutes—the flavors settle and every bite tastes even better.
How to Serve Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a classic choice to add a pop of vibrant green and fresh herbal notes. You can also scatter some extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flair and flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This baked pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is also an unbeatable side to scoop up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the baking dish family-style to create a warm, welcoming vibe. For a more elegant touch, portion out individual servings in mini ramekins, topped with basil and a little extra cheese broiled until crisp.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked pasta either before or after baking. Just place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes covered with foil to keep it moist, or microwave individual portions until hot. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce seems too thick.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal because of its sauce-holding ridges, penne or ziti also work beautifully in this baked pasta recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for an equally satisfying vegetarian twist.
What can I use if I don’t have Boursin cheese?
Try substituting with cream cheese mixed with fresh garlic and herbs, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same. Boursin really gives this recipe its unique character.
How spicy is the dish?
The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can control the heat level. It’s generally a mild, comforting dish with a subtle kick if you add them.
Can I prepare part of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce a day ahead, then assemble and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and homey, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring as a comforting solo meal. Don’t hesitate to whip it up next time you want something cheesy, hearty, and utterly delicious to brighten your day.
Print
Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Baked Rigatoni with Sausage and Boursin Cheese is a comforting and flavorful Italian-American pasta dish featuring rigatoni tossed in a creamy tomato sauce enriched with garlic & fine herbs Boursin cheese and Italian sausage, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
Sauce and Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 package (5.2 ounces) Boursin garlic & fine herbs cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the Boursin garlic & fine herbs cheese until melted and smooth. Add the heavy cream, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce and toss well to combine, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the baked rigatoni rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for an added pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- For extra flavor and nutrition, add a handful of fresh spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce before baking.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free if needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
