Baked Turkey Rigatoni

Baked Turkey Rigatoni Recipe: A Comforting Way to Use Holiday Leftovers

Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into a comforting, oven-baked pasta dish the whole family will love. This Baked Turkey Rigatoni is rich, hearty, and packed with bold Italian-inspired flavors. Tender turkey, savory sausage, and creamy marinara sauce come together under a golden layer of melted cheese for an easy dinner that feels brand new, not reheated.

Whether you shop at a grocery store for everyday staples or plan ahead with quality ingredients, this recipe is designed to be simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A smart way to reuse cooked turkey without tasting like leftovers

• Creamy, cheesy, and baked until bubbly

• Ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prep

• Flexible with easy substitutions and variations

• Comfort food that feels elevated yet approachable
  
  

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
Servings: 8
Skill Level: Easy to Intermediate

Ingredients for Baked Turkey Rigatoni

• 1½ pounds cooked turkey, chopped

• ½ cup chopped pepperoncini peppers

• ½ cup chopped kalamata olives

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 6 ounces hot Italian sausage, casings removed

• 1 cup diced onion

• 1 cup sliced button mushrooms

• Salt, to taste

• ½ cup dry white wine

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 (28 oz) jar marinara sauce

• 1 cup water

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta, cooked and drained

• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed

• ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

• Chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley
  
  

For best flavor, choose quality proteins from a trusted butcher shop and crisp vegetables from reliable sources.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In a large bowl, combine chopped turkey, pepperoncini, and olives. Set aside to let the flavors mingle.

Step 2: Build the Sauce Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the Italian sausage while breaking it into small pieces. Add onion, mushrooms, and a light sprinkle of salt. Cook until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Deglaze the pot with white wine, scraping up the flavorful bits. Once reduced, stir in chicken broth, marinara sauce, water, and cream. Add the turkey mixture and gently simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Boil rigatoni in lightly salted water until just under al dente. Drain well so it finishes cooking perfectly in the oven.

Step 5: Assemble

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Fold pasta into the sauce until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Add mozzarella throughout and finish with Parmesan.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until bubbly and golden. Rest for 10 minutes before serving, then garnish with parsley.

Chef’s Tips for Success

• Slightly undercook pasta to avoid a mushy texture

• Resting time helps the sauce thicken naturally

• Fresh cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties
  
  

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container

• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months

• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven or microwave until heated through
  
  

Easy Recipe Variations

• Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes

• Vegetarian: Swap meat for roasted vegetables

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free pasta

• Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based cream and cheese
  
  

Many specialty ingredients can be found at a Mediterranean grocery store that offers high-quality cheeses and olives.

Perfect Pairings

Serve with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for balance. For a festive touch, pair it with pumpkin ravioli, pasta, or other seasonal sides.

Wine Pairing:
A Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato-based sauce beautifully. White wine lovers may enjoy a lightly oaked Chardonnay.

Weekly Offers at Super King Market

Planning this meal is even easier when you take advantage of weekly savings at Super King Market. Their rotating specials often include fresh meats, pasta, cheeses, and pantry essentials, making it simple to stock up while staying on budget. Checking weekly offers before shopping helps you get premium ingredients for less.

FAQs – Baked Turkey Rigatoni Recipe

1. Can I buy all the ingredients for Baked Turkey Rigatoni at one grocery store?

Yes, most ingredients for this recipe are easy to find at a well-stocked grocery store. You’ll typically find pasta, marinara sauce, cheese, and broth in one place. Cooked turkey and Italian sausage are usually available at the meat counter. Shopping at a reliable store helps ensure freshness and convenience.

2. Where can I find high-quality turkey and sausage for this recipe?

A local butcher shop is a great place to source fresh turkey meat and flavorful Italian sausage. Butchers often offer better cuts and helpful preparation advice. Using quality meat enhances the overall taste and texture of baked pasta dishes. It’s especially helpful when cooking with leftovers.

3. Are specialty ingredients available at a Mediterranean grocery store?

Yes, a Mediterranean grocery store often carries kalamata olives, pepperoncini peppers, and premium cheeses. These ingredients add depth and authenticity to the dish. Shopping at specialty markets can elevate simple recipes. It’s a great option when you want bold, traditional flavors.

4. Can I shop for this recipe at a Middle eastern market?

Many ingredients, including olives, cheeses, and fresh herbs, are commonly available at a Middle eastern market. These markets are known for quality pantry staples and produce. They’re ideal if you enjoy cooking with international flavors. You may even discover new ingredients to customize the recipe.

5. Is it possible to order ingredients using grocery delivery services?

Yes, grocery delivery services make it easy to order pasta, sauces, dairy, and vegetables from home. This is helpful when you’re short on time or planning meals in advance. Many services offer same-day delivery. Just check product descriptions for freshness and substitutions.

6. How do I choose the best vegetables for this recipe?

When shopping for fresh produce near you, look for firm onions, clean mushrooms, and bright herbs. Fresh vegetables improve both flavor and texture in baked pasta dishes. Local markets often restock frequently, which ensures better quality. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Turkey Rigatoni proves that leftovers can be transformed into something comforting and crave-worthy. With simple steps, flexible ingredients, and rich flavors, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll return to again and again—especially when sourced from trusted local supermarkets and quality food stores.