Looking for a quick, creamy, and ultra-satisfying pasta dish? This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is the perfect blend of rich Italian flavors, tender pasta, and a luscious tomato-cream sauce that clings beautifully to every bite. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that tastes restaurant-quality—without the hassle!
With savory Italian sausage, garlic, and a silky Parmesan-infused sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with crusty garlic bread and a fresh salad for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients (Serves 4-5)
For the Pasta & Sausage
- 300 g (10 oz) rigatoni pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 250 g (9 oz) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Creamy Tomato Sauce
- 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
- 60 ml (¼ cup) chicken broth (or pasta water)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 60 g (½ cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
For Garnish & Serving
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crusty garlic bread (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the rigatoni and cook 1 minute less than package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, for 4-5 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Simmer for 2 more minutes until the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss until well coated.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
- Serve immediately with garlic bread and a crisp salad. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 28g
- Sodium: 900mg
Tips & Tricks for the Best Creamy Rigatoni
✔ Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. If you like spice, opt for hot Italian sausage.
✔ Don’t skip the Parmesan! It melts into the sauce for extra creaminess.
✔ Prefer a thicker sauce? Let it simmer for an extra 5 minutes to reduce.
✔ Want a veggie boost? Add baby spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
✔ For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
???? Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor
???? Quick & easy – ready in 30 minutes!
???? Perfect for family dinners or date nights
???? One-pan sauce = minimal cleanup
???? Comfort food at its finest!
What to Serve with Creamy Sausage Rigatoni
???? Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
???? Caprese Salad – Light and fresh to balance the richness.
???? A glass of red wine – Try a Chianti or Sangiovese for the perfect pairing.
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