Nothing says comfort food like a hearty bowl of creamy sausage rigatoni. This dish is packed with rich flavors, featuring al dente rigatoni pasta, savory Italian sausage, a luscious creamy tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to impress your family and friends, this recipe delivers in every way.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Rich and Creamy – The sauce is a delightful blend of tomatoes, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese.
- Family Favorite – Even picky eaters will love the savory and creamy combination.
- Customizable – You can easily swap out ingredients to fit your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Rigatoni Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- Water (for boiling)
- 1 tsp salt
For the Creamy Sausage Sauce:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Prepare the Sausage
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked, then remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
- In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Add the Cream and Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes creamy.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
- Add the cooked rigatoni pasta, tossing to combine everything evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Expert Tips for the Best Rigatoni Pasta
- Use High-Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh Italian sausage for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in creamy sauces.
- Save the Pasta Water: A little pasta water can help loosen the sauce and make it cling to the pasta.
- Spice It Up: Add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Add Veggies: Try mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! This dish reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Freeze Creamy Sausage Rigatoni?
Yes, but the cream sauce may separate slightly upon reheating. To fix this, stir in a little extra cream when reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Rigatoni?
Penne, ziti, or fusilli all work well as substitutes for rigatoni.
How Can I Make It Healthier?
Use turkey sausage and replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
Creamy sausage rigatoni is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and ease. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this rich and satisfying pasta dish is sure to impress. Try it tonight and watch it become a household favorite!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy creamy pasta dishes? Let us know in the comments below!
