Air Fryer Stouffer’s Three Cheese Rigatoni

Air Fryer Stouffer’s Three Cheese Rigatoni

Why You’ll Love It

This gooey, satisfying pasta dish brings together tender rigatoni noodles smothered in a rich tomato sauce and loaded with a decadent trio of mozzarella, parmesan, and romano cheeses. Cooking it in the air fryer adds a deliciously baked finish with bubbly cheese edges that you can’t get from a microwave.

Ingredients

• 1 frozen Stouffer’s Three Cheese Rigatoni meal (single-serve; do not thaw)

• Optional toppings: grated parmesan, crushed red pepper, fresh basil

• Optional sides: garlic bread, steamed veggies, or salad

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for 3–5 minutes to ensure consistent results.

Prepare the Meal

• Remove the tray from the box, but leave the black plastic tray intact.

• Do not peel off the plastic film entirely. Instead, poke 2–3 holes in it using a fork to allow steam to vent.

Air Fry

• Place the tray into the air fryer basket.

• Cook at 360°F for 24–27 minutes.

• At around the 15-minute mark, carefully lift back the plastic film, stir the rigatoni and sauce, then re-cover loosely.

• Return to the air fryer and cook for another 9–12 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned on the edges.

Check for Doneness

• The cheese should be melted and bubbling.

• Pasta should be soft but not mushy.

• Sauce should be evenly heated.

• Internal temperature should reach 165°F.

• Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

• For a baked-style crust, remove the film completely during the last 4–5 minutes to crisp the cheese on top.

• Stirring halfway ensures no cold pockets and smooth cheese distribution.

• Add chopped spinach or cooked mushrooms for an easy nutrition boost.

Serving Ideas

• Serve with:

  • Garlic knots or crusty Italian bread

  • A side Caesar or caprese salad

  • Roasted asparagus or sautéed zucchini

• Garnish with:

  • Fresh parsley or basil

  • Extra parmesan or mozzarella

  • A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze

Storage & Reheating

Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Air Fryer: 360°F for 4–6 minutes in a heat-safe container

• Microwave: 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway

• Oven: 375°F for 10–12 minutes, covered with foil

FAQs

Can I cook it from frozen?

Yes, this meal is meant to be cooked directly from frozen—no need to thaw.

Is the black tray safe in the air fryer?

Yes, it’s air fryer-safe at 360°F. Just avoid higher temps that could warp it.

Does the cheese brown up?

Yes! Especially if you uncover it for the last few minutes for a baked-style finish.

Make Stouffer’s Three Cheese Rigatoni in the air fryer for gooey, bubbling cheese and perfectly cooked pasta. Step-by-step instructions and serving tips included.