why make this recipe

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is a comforting and delicious dish that brings the taste of Italy right to your dinner table. This recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage with creamy sauce, pasta, and fresh herbs, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s easy to make and sure to please everyone!

how to make Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

Ingredients:

2 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
1 large Onion (diced)
4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
1 1/2 lbs. Italian Sausage (may use 1 lb. if you want less sausage)
(2) 28-ounce cans Whole or Crushed Tomatoes
1/4 cup Fresh Basil, chopped (or 1 Tablespoon dried basil)
1/4 cup Fresh Oregano, chopped (or 1 Tablespoon dried oregano)
1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
2 teaspoons Salt
1 teaspoon Pepper
1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream
1 1/2 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese
1 lb. Rigatoni Pasta

Directions:

Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then add the diced onion and cook for 7-8 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and Italian sausage, cooking for an additional 7-8 minutes until the sausage begins to brown.
Cook the Pasta: While the sausage is cooking, fill a separate large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add a generous amount of salt to the water and then add the rigatoni. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes for al dente.
Prepare the Sauce: Add the canned tomatoes to the sausage mixture. If using whole tomatoes, blend them in a blender until smooth. Stir in the fresh basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture come to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Make It Creamy: Add the heavy cream and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the rigatoni and add it to the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta. If you prefer a less saucy dish, let the sauce simmer for an additional 10 minutes to reduce.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

how to serve Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

Serve the Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni hot, straight from the pot. You can add extra Parmesan cheese on top and fresh basil for garnish. It pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

For extra flavor, use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for more nutrition.
Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.

variation

You can make a lighter version by using chicken sausage and substituting half-and-half for heavy cream. For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with mushrooms or a meat substitute.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with another pasta, such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How do I reheat the leftovers?
You can reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them just before serving. This helps the pasta maintain its texture.