Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni Recipe
Creamy Italian sausage rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug. The rich sauce coats every bite of pasta, while the sausage adds a savory depth that makes the dish irresistible. It is simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for family gatherings.
The combination of cream, cheese, and tomatoes creates a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to rigatoni. This hearty pasta dish is both satisfying and full of flavor. Once you make it, you will find yourself craving it again and again.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Rigatoni pasta | 12 ounces | 420 |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound | 800 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 12 |
| Crushed tomatoes | 1 can (15 oz) | 150 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 800 |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup grated | 400 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Fresh basil | For garnish | 5 |
Step by Step Preparation
Cook the pasta
Bring salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Brown the sausage
Heat olive oil in a skillet, add sausage, and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
Add aromatics
Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Build the sauce
Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, then simmer.
Make it creamy
Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes rich and smooth.
Combine and serve
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.
Tips for customizing the recipe
You can swap rigatoni with penne or ziti if that is what you have on hand. For extra vegetables, add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini into the sauce. To lighten the dish, use half and half instead of heavy cream.
For a spicier kick, choose hot Italian sausage or add more chili flakes. You can also top the dish with mozzarella and bake it for a cheesy pasta bake. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a fragrant touch.
Nutritional Information
One serving of creamy sausage rigatoni contains about 500 to 600 calories. It is high in protein from sausage and cheese, while pasta provides satisfying carbs. The cream makes it rich, so smaller portions can be filling.
Using turkey or chicken sausage can reduce fat and calories. Choosing whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and nutrients. This dish is indulgent but can be adjusted to fit your lifestyle.
Serving Suggestion
Serve the rigatoni hot with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top. Garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta. For a family style dinner, place it in a large serving bowl and let everyone dig in.
It also works well as a make ahead dish for gatherings. A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors perfectly. The comforting nature of this pasta makes it an instant favorite.
How to store and keep fresh
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 milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid overheating as it may cause the sauce to separate.
You can also freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat. For best texture, store sauce and pasta separately if planning to freeze.
Conclusion
Creamy Italian sausage rigatoni is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish. With tender pasta, savory sausage, and a velvety sauce, it is a recipe that always impresses. The simplicity makes it a perfect weeknight option, while the richness makes it worthy of special occasions.
Customizable and hearty, it is a dish you will want to make again and again. Pair it with bread, salad, or wine for a complete meal. This creamy pasta is sure to become a favorite at your table.
FAQs
Q1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and boil the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
Q2. What type of sausage is best?
Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, works best for authentic flavor.
Q3. Can I make it dairy free?
Yes, use coconut cream and a dairy free Parmesan alternative for a creamy result.
