Hearty Creamy Sausage Rigatoni
This Hearty Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a comforting pasta dish that features tender rigatoni noodles enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce, accompanied by flavorful Italian sausage. Perfect for any weeknight dinner, it’s both filling and satisfying.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 large skillet
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage mild or spicy, based on preference
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- for garnish fresh basil leaves optional
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the rigatoni. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and season it with salt. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.
- Serve the rigatoni hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Notes
You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.