Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Recipe – A Rich & Flavorful Pasta Dish

If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and comforting pasta dishes, this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a must-try! This dish features tender rigatoni pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a luxuriously creamy sauce made with heavy cream, parmesan, and a touch of garlic for extra depth. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a hearty, satisfying meal.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires only a handful of simple ingredients. Let’s dive into this deliciously creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
• Water for boiling
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Creamy Sausage Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For Garnishing:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Recipe ?

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage (remove from casings if using links) and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove excess grease if necessary, but leave about 1 tbsp of fat for extra flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

1. Add minced garlic, chopped onions, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan.
2. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning, then stir to combine.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

1. Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing well to coat each piece in the creamy mixture.
2. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust the consistency.
3. Let it simmer for 2 more minutes to marry the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
2. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

Variations

• Make it Spicier: Use spicy Italian sausage and add more red pepper flakes.
• Extra Creamy: Add an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream for an ultra-rich sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap rigatoni for zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella cheese for a gooey, cheesy experience.

Cooking Notes

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Rigatoni should be al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor—avoid pre-packaged grated cheese.
• Simmer the sauce gently after adding the cream to prevent curdling.
• Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni pairs perfectly with:

• Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery side to soak up extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad – A fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables – Such as broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• A Glass of Red Wine – Like Chianti or Pinot Noir for a perfect Italian-inspired meal.

Helpful Tips

✔ Use a large skillet to ensure even cooking of sausage and sauce.
✔ Adjust seasoning at the end—the sausage adds saltiness, so taste before adding more.
✔ For a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes before adding the pasta.
✔ Make it ahead – The sauce can be made 1 day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Related Recipes :

• Buffalo wild wings parmesan garlic chicken pasta crockpot
• Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
• Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad Recipe
• Sausage Spinach Pasta Recipe

FAQs

❓ Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work great in this recipe.

❓ Can I make this without sausage?

Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

❓ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream.

❓ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but the cream sauce may separate slightly. Freeze for up to 2 months, and stir well when reheating.

Conclusion

This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a rich, hearty, and comforting pasta dish that comes together in just 30 minutes! The combination of savory sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni creates an irresistible meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite! 😋🍝

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