CREAMY SAUSAGE RIGATONI
This creamy sausage rigatoni is rich, comforting, and full of bold Italian flavors. With tender pasta, savoury sausage, and a silky cream sauce, it’s the perfect one-pot meal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage mild or spicy, casings removed
- ½ onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Make the Sauce:
- Reduce heat to low. Add cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Simmer for 3–5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine and Serve:
- Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and more Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
Make Ahead:
Cook sausage and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. Variations:
Use penne or ziti instead of rigatoni. Swap Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version. Serving Suggestions:
Pair with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal. Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
Cook sausage and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. Variations:
Use penne or ziti instead of rigatoni. Swap Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version. Serving Suggestions:
Pair with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal. Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.