The smell of sizzling Italian sausage wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting you to a bustling trattoria in Rome. Picture it: golden-brown rigatoni coated in a rich tomato sauce, topped with fresh herbs and gooey cheese that stretches just long enough to make you giggle.
Now imagine this masterpiece gracing your dinner table after a long day at work or being the star of your next gathering. This is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories wrapped in every delicious bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting Italian sausage rigatoni pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free and enjoyable
- The bold flavors of the sausage blend beautifully with the creamy sauce
- Its vibrant colors will make your dinner table pop with excitement!
- Customize it easily by adding your favorite vegetables or cheeses for an extra twist
Every friend who tries this dish can’t help but smile and ask for seconds—it has become my unofficial family tradition during holidays!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Rigatoni Pasta: Opt for high-quality pasta; its ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Italian Sausage: Choose spicy or mild based on your preference; both varieties will elevate the dish.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness and a velvety texture that makes every bite heavenly.
- Canned Tomatoes: Use whole peeled tomatoes for a fresher taste; crush them for better sauce consistency.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances flavor—no one likes clumpy powdered stuff here!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté veggies while adding depth of flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Bright and aromatic, fresh basil elevates each serving with its delightful fragrance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by boiling that water!
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Toss in diced onions and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté until translucent and fragrant—around 3-4 minutes will do wonders.
Create the Sauce: Pour canned tomatoes (with juices) into the skillet along with heavy cream. Stir well until everything is combined; let it simmer for 10 minutes while you marvel at its beauty.
Toss Everything Together: Drain your cooked rigatoni and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Mix well until all pasta pieces are coated in that heavenly sauce.
Finish with Cheese & Herbs: Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your masterpiece before garnishing with torn basil leaves for an aromatic finish.
Enjoy every mouthful of this delicious creation—trust me, it’s worth every step!
You Must Know
- This Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy
- The rich sauce and hearty pasta create a symphony of flavors, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in
- Pair it with garlic bread for the ultimate indulgence
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the Italian sausage to develop flavor, then cook the rigatoni while simmering the sauce simultaneously for efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. You can also sprinkle fresh basil for a burst of freshness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality Italian sausage to elevate your dish; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor
- Always salt your pasta water generously for better-tasting noodles
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for delightful variations
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with laughter and delicious aromas as we enjoyed family meals together.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian sausages work well in this recipe.
What if I don’t have rigatoni?
Penne or ziti are great alternatives that will still hold the sauce beautifully.
How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers for an extra kick of heat.
Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Italy to your dinner table. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Rigatoni pasta
- Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- Heavy cream
- Canned whole tomatoes
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and brown for 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Pour in canned tomatoes and heavy cream, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine cooked rigatoni with the sauce in the skillet, mixing until well coated.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with torn basil leaves before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 940mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
