There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of rich, creamy pasta, and this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is no exception. Packed with savory sausage, a luscious cream sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. With a balance of creamy, spicy, and garlicky flavors, this recipe brings restaurant-quality pasta straight to your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Uses simple ingredients for an extraordinary meal
- Quick and easy preparation – ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors
- Ideal for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep
- Customizable with different proteins and cheeses
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Sausage Rigatoni
A great pasta dish starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta (Premium Option: Bronze-cut pasta for better sauce absorption)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (Substitute: Chicken sausage or ground turkey)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream (Substitute: Half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (for added depth of flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Kitchen Tools and Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining the pasta.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon.
- Remove excess grease if necessary and set the sausage aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes.
- Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add the drained rigatoni and toss until coated in the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately with additional Parmesan cheese on top.
Quick Tips for Perfection
- Use bronze-cut rigatoni for better sauce absorption.
- Brown the sausage well to enhance the deep, savory flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water for a silkier texture.
- For extra spice, use hot Italian sausage or more red pepper flakes.
- Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end for added nutrition.
Creative Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper or use hot sausage.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in shredded mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
- Mushroom Lover’s Version: Sauté mushrooms with onions for extra depth.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute rigatoni with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~550 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 30g
- Fats: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage Instructions
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Store in an airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Freeze in individual portions |
Pro Tip: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth for the best texture.
Conclusion
Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort dish that brings a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of hearty sausage, rich cream sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni makes it an irresistible meal.
“Great meals start with simple ingredients and a little creativity”
So, grab your skillet, whip up this delicious pasta, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Recipe Yield: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: ~550 kcal
Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out our complete collection of tasty recipes here.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well in this recipe.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
