Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for impressing friends at a get-together. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you may already have at home. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the hearty sausage and pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

Ingredients

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce and mix well until the pasta is coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

Serve the Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni warm. You can place it in a large serving bowl or plate individual portions. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. Consider pairing this dish with a side salad and garlic bread to complete the meal.

How to Store Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of cream or water to loosen up the sauce as it thickens when stored.

Tips to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

1. Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can use spicy or sweet sausage based on your preference.
2. Don’t skip the fresh garlic as it adds a wonderful aroma and taste to the dish.
3. Stir the sauce continuously while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Variation

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the sausage for extra flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use other types of pasta like penne or farfalle if you prefer.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
A: You can use turkey sausage and reduce the amount of heavy cream to make the dish lighter.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately from the pasta. Combine them when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

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• Author: quickusarecipe-admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A delightful dish combining rich flavors with creamy sauce, hearty sausage, and pasta for a cozy family dinner or a get-together.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce and mix well until the pasta is coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider pairing the dish with a side salad and garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: pasta, creamy sauce, Italian sausage, quick dinner, family meal