This 5-ingredient oven baked rigatoni dessert is one of those budget-friendly, back-pocket recipes that feels a little surprising the first time you hear about it and completely comforting once you taste it. Dry rigatoni bakes right in the dish with a simple sweet mixture, turning into a soft, custardy, noodle-based dessert that lands somewhere between bread pudding and baked pasta pudding. It is especially handy on busy weeknights when you want something homemade without pulling out a long ingredient list.
Serve this warm on its own or with a spoonful of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of cinnamon. For a cozy dessert spread, pair it with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or hot coffee after dinner. If you are bringing it to a casual gathering or potluck, it fits right in next to fruit salad or a simple cookie tray.
5-Ingredient Oven Baked Rigatoni Dessert
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 cups dry uncooked rigatoni pasta
2 cups milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a medium oven-safe casserole dish.
2. Add the dry rigatoni directly to the casserole dish, then pour in the milk, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Stir well so the pasta is evenly coated and the sugar starts to dissolve.
3. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
4. Remove the foil, stir gently, and return the dish to the oven uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Let the dessert rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly. Spoon into bowls and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Add vanilla: If you have it on hand, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract with the milk for a warmer bakery-style flavor that makes the dessert taste a little richer.
Use raisins or fruit: A small handful of raisins or finely diced apples can be added before baking if you want more texture and a classic pudding-style feel.
Watch the liquid: Different pasta brands can absorb liquid a little differently, so if the dish looks dry before the pasta is tender, add a small splash of milk and continue baking.
Make it ahead: Bake it earlier in the day and reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and bring back that creamy texture.
Try a cinnamon-sugar top: For a slightly crisper finish, sprinkle a little extra sugar and cinnamon over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.