Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni
Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is the epitome of comfort food, blending savory Italian sausage with a decadent creamy sauce, rich tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish not only pleases the palate but also brings a warm, inviting aroma to your kitchen. If you’re searching for a meal that’s quick to prepare but impressive enough for guests, look no further.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is a dish that checks all the boxes for a family-friendly meal. It is quick to prepare, taking approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy texture and rich flavors will impress both your family and guests alike. With ingredients that are easily found in your pantry and fridge, this meal makes it easy to whip up something delicious without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s hearty enough to satisfy those hunger pangs!
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Nutty and fragrant, it’s the perfect base for sautéing.
- 1 large Onion (diced): Sweet and aromatic, it forms the backbone of the flavor.
- 4 Garlic Cloves (minced): Pungent and aromatic, garlic adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1 1/2 lbs. Italian Sausage: The heart of this dish, offering a spicy kick and rich flavor.
- (2) 28-ounce cans Whole or Crushed Tomatoes: Juicy and tangy, they provide the sauce’s base.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil, chopped: Fresh and aromatic, it adds a touch of brightness.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Oregano, chopped: Herbs that lend a robust flavor profile, perfect for Italian dishes.
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes: Adds a hint of heat, balancing the creaminess.
- 2 teaspoons Salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings the dish together.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper: Provides a gentle kick to the savory notes.
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream: Luxurious and rich, it makes the sauce creamy and thick.
- 1 1/2 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese: Nutty and sharp, it enriches the sauce with its umami flavor.
- 1 lb. Rigatoni Pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the sauce and ingredients.
Step-by-Step Directions
Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the extra-virgin olive oil until it shimmers.
- Toss in the diced onion and let it sauté for 7-8 minutes until softened and translucent, filling the room with an enticing aroma.
- Add the minced garlic and Italian sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces. Cook for an additional 7-8 minutes until the sausage is golden brown and cooked through.
Cook the Pasta
- While the sausage is cooking, fill a separate large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Generously salt the water to flavor the pasta, then add the rigatoni. Cook for 9-11 minutes or until al dente. Follow the package instructions for perfect results.
Prepare the Sauce
- Add the canned tomatoes to the sausage mixture. If using whole tomatoes, you may want to blend them until smooth for a velvety texture.
- Stir in the fresh basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to come to a boil before reducing the heat. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Make It Creamy
- Pour in the heavy cream and add 1 cup of the Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and allow it to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Once the rigatoni has finished cooking, drain it and add it to the luxurious sauce. Gently toss to coat every piece fully. If you desire a thicker sauce, let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
Serve
- Plate the creamy pasta and generously garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil as desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful and comforting flavors.
Tips & Tricks
- Ingredient Swaps: If you prefer a lighter option, substitute turkey sausage for Italian sausage. You can also use low-fat cream for a slightly healthier version.
- Herb Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs such as parsley or thyme for added flavor!
- Extra Spice: Adjust the red chili flakes to your taste; reduce it for less heat or increase for more kick.
- Cheesy Goodness: For the cheese lovers, feel free to incorporate other cheeses like mozzarella along with the Parmesan for a super cheesy experience.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. A loaf of rustic Italian bread is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce on your plate. For a drink pairing, consider serving with a robust red wine, such as Chianti or a velvety Shiraz.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
Storing Tips & Variations
- Storing: Leftover Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well; simply store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for an extra nutrition boost.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve mastered the art of preparing Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni, why not indulge in this rich and savory dish? It’s not only satisfying but incredibly versatile, making it a great choice for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy date night at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors that will surely become a new favorite at your dinner table!
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
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Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes! You can substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it altogether and add extra vegetables.
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How can I make this dish spicier?
- To increase the heat, add more red chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce when cooking the sauce.
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What can I use besides heavy cream?
- For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk; just remember it will alter the creaminess slightly.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for a day or two. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving for the best texture.
Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Nutty and fragrant, perfect for sautéing.
- 1 large Onion (diced) Sweet and aromatic; forms the backbone of the flavor.
- 4 Cloves Garlic (minced) Pungent and aromatic; adds depth of flavor.
- 1.5 lbs. Italian Sausage Offers a spicy kick and rich flavor.
- 56 oz (2) 28-ounce cans Whole or Crushed Tomatoes Juicy and tangy; provides the sauce's base.
- 0.25 cup Fresh Basil, chopped Adds a touch of brightness.
- 0.25 cup Fresh Oregano, chopped Lends a robust flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes Adds a hint of heat.
- 2 teaspoons Salt Enhances all flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper Provides a gentle kick.
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream Makes the sauce creamy and thick.
- 1.5 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese Enriches the sauce with umami flavor.
- 1 lb. Rigatoni Pasta Perfect shape to hold onto the sauce.
Instructions
Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the extra-virgin olive oil until it shimmers.
- Toss in the diced onion and sauté for 7-8 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and Italian sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces. Cook for another 7-8 minutes until the sausage is golden brown.
Cook the Pasta
- In a separate pot, bring water to a rolling boil, then generously salt it.
- Add the rigatoni and cook for 9-11 minutes or until al dente.
Prepare the Sauce
- Add the canned tomatoes to the sausage mixture and stir in the fresh basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Allow to come to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Make It Creamy
- Pour in heavy cream and add 1 cup of Parmesan cheese. Stir and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Drain the cooked rigatoni and add it to the sauce. Gently toss to coat evenly.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
Serve
- Plate the pasta and garnish with remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- Serve immediately.