Go Back

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

A comforting dish featuring savory Italian sausage in a creamy sauce, rich tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

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.

Notes

Ingredient swaps include turkey sausage for a lighter option and low-fat cream. Feel free to mix in other herbs or add more chili flakes for heat.
Keyword Comfort Food, Creamy Rigatoni, Italian Sausage, Pasta Recipe, Quick Dinner