Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a hearty and comforting pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of sausage, cream, and cheese with the satisfying texture of rigatoni pasta.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or any occasion where you want to serve a delicious and filling meal.
The combination of sausage, garlic, and cream creates a flavorful sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover why Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Comforting: The combination of rigatoni pasta, sausage, and creamy sauce creates a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile: You can customize the seasonings and add-ins to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish that’s sure to please.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit at family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings, ensuring that everyone will enjoy its delicious flavors.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta
Rigatoni pasta is the star of this recipe, providing a satisfying and hearty base. You can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli, depending on your availability.
Italian Sausage
Italian sausage adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish. You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your preference. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. You can substitute it with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese provides a nutty and salty flavor to the sauce. You can substitute it with other types of hard cheese like Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the 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 the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside. This step ensures that the pasta is fully cooked and ready to be combined with the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet. This step adds rich, savory flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet with the sausage drippings, add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. This step creates a rich and flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. This step ensures that the pasta is evenly coated and ready to be served.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the Creamy Sausage Rigatoni to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy! This step adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making the dish even more enjoyable.
Creamy Sausage Rigatoni
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb 450g Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup 240ml heavy cream
- 1 cup 240ml chicken broth
- 1 cup 100g grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the 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 the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet with the sausage drippings, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Transfer the Creamy Sausage Rigatoni to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and browned before removing it from the skillet.
- You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Expert Tips for Success
- Fully Cooked Sausage: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and browned before removing it from the skillet. This helps to achieve a rich and flavorful base for the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs to suit your preferences.
- Consistent Chopping: Chop the onions and garlic into uniform sizes for an even distribution of flavor.
- Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Variations and Customizations
Dietary Modifications
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly option. Ensure all other ingredients are certified vegetarian.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream and cheese to make this recipe dairy-free. Ensure all other ingredients are certified dairy-free.
Flavor Twists
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra spicy twist.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the sauce for an herbal note.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for an extra cheesy flavor.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Creamy Sausage Rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the pasta is completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container and freeze until solid. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Add a splash of water or broth to help retain moisture during reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that’s perfect for soaking up the rich and creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a balanced meal.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni, you might also like:
- Classic Spaghetti Bolognese: A hearty and flavorful pasta dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo: A rich and creamy pasta dish made with chicken, Alfredo sauce, and fettuccine.
- Vegetable Primavera: A colorful and nutritious pasta dish made with a variety of vegetables, pasta, and a light sauce.
Conclusion
Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a hearty and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its rich, savory flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a winner. Don’t forget to try out the variations and customizations to make it your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Creamy Sausage Rigatoni!
Paula has been a passionate home cook for over a decade, specializing in healthy, nutritious meals that the whole family can enjoy. Her love for food started early, influenced by her grandmother’s traditional recipes, which she modernizes with a healthier twist. Paula holds a nutrition certification and is dedicated to sharing meals that not only taste great but also fuel the body with essential nutrients.