If you’re craving a big warm hug in food form, this classic Pasta al Forno has you covered! This Italian baked pasta combines a rich homemade meat sauce with perfectly al dente noodles and loads of melty, creamy cheeses for the ultimate cozy, comforting dish. It’s like a warm blanket for your soul and tastebuds.
Pasta al Forno, which simply means “pasta from the oven,” is the kind of rustic, homestyle Italian fare that instantly transports you to a lively Nonna’s kitchen. Hearty and soul-satisfying, it strikes that glorious balance between satisfying and indulgent without being too heavy.
Essentially the Italian version of down-home mac and cheese but even better!
This is the pasta al forno recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for effortless entertaining, big family gatherings, or just anytime you need a cozy meal that feels like a great big hug. Assemble it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready for cheesy, baked pasta perfection.
Ingredients:
1 lb rigatoni pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 onion finely chopped
8 oz ground pork
6 oz Italian sausage casings removed
3 cups tomato puree/passata
1 tsp salt plus more for pasta water
1/2 tsp black pepper
12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese grated
2 oz pecorino romano cheese grated
Instructions
In a skillet, cook the onion in olive oil over medium heat for 5 minutes until translucent. Add the pork and sausage meat and cook until browned and crumbled.
Pour in the tomato puree, 1/2 cup water, salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni 3-4 minutes shy of package instructions for very al dente, reserving 1-2 cups of starchy pasta cooking water before draining.
In a large bowl, toss the hot drained pasta with the meat sauce, 3/4 of the mozzarella and pecorino, and 1-2 splashes of pasta cooking water until a creamy sauce forms. Add more cooking water as needed for desired sauciness.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a 3qt baking dish and top with remaining cheeses. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until hot and melty.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Make ahead: Assemble completely, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to bake a little longer from refrigerated.
Top pasta al forno with parsley, basil or chili flakes! Serve with garlic bread and a salad for an epic Italian feast.
