Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the rich, savory flavor of Creamy Sausage Rigatoni to warm you up after a long day. This dish combines hearty rigatoni, tender sausage, and a luxuriously creamy sauce for a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe when I was experimenting with ways to use Italian sausage and needed something quick yet indulgent. Now, it’s one of my family’s most-requested dinners. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to leave everyone scraping their plates clean!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

If you’re looking for a dinner that checks all the boxes, Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is the answer. Here’s why it’s destined to become a favorite in your home:

First, it’s an easy, one-pot wonder. Who has time for piles of dishes on a busy weeknight? Cooking the sauce and pasta together not only saves time but also infuses the rigatoni with extra flavor.

Second, this dish is restaurant-quality yet simple enough for anyone to make. The creamy sauce tastes like it came straight out of an Italian bistro, but you can whip it up with everyday ingredients.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, entertaining guests, or enjoying a cozy date night, this dish is always a hit.

Finally, it’s versatile. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or use what’s already in your pantry. Let your creativity shine!

Ready to learn more about what makes this dish so special? Let’s break down the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Creamy Sausage Rigatoni lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich, comforting taste of the dish:

• Rigatoni Pasta: The ridged surface of rigatoni is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. You can substitute with penne or ziti if needed, but rigatoni’s tubular shape is ideal.
• Italian Sausage: Sweet or spicy Italian sausage works beautifully here. Remove it from the casing and crumble it as it cooks for maximum flavor.
• Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its luxurious creaminess. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
• Tomato Paste: A small amount of tomato paste adds depth and a subtle tang that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for its nutty, salty flavor. Stirring it into the sauce makes it irresistibly cheesy.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics create a flavorful base for the sauce. Their sweetness complements the sausage perfectly.
• Chicken Broth: Used to thin the sauce and add savory depth. You can substitute vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor.
• Spinach (optional): For a pop of color and added nutrition, toss in a handful of fresh spinach at the end. It wilts beautifully into the sauce.

A large skillet or sauté pan is essential to cook everything evenly. With just a few simple tools and these ingredients, you’re ready to create a masterpiece.

How to Make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until just al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Create the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Then, pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
5. Combine Everything: Return the sausage to the skillet, followed by the cooked rigatoni. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Add Parmesan and Spinach: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of spinach (if using). Let the spinach wilt and the cheese melt, creating a creamy, cohesive sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the pasta into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper. Serve hot and watch it disappear!

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners.

Storage Options

Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is as delicious the next day as it is fresh off the stove. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more flavorful.
• Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring the sauce back to life. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese for an extra creamy sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra vegetables. They cook quickly and complement the creamy sauce.

Let your creativity shine and customize this dish to suit your taste – you really can’t go wrong!

Whether you’re serving this to guests or enjoying it as a cozy family meal, Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is sure to be a hit. With its rich sauce, tender pasta, and savory sausage, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy!

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