Velvety ribbons of rigatoni pasta bathed in a luxurious, cream-infused tomato sauce offer a level of comfort that only a home-cooked meal can bring. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory Italian sausage that’s been crumbled into juicy, flavorful morsels, and a sauce that’s been simmered to perfection. The tang of crushed tomatoes brightens the dish, while heavy cream smooths it into a luscious coating that clings to every tube of rigatoni. As you twirl your fork, you’ll notice the gentle kick of crushed red pepper flakes balancing the richness of the cream and sausage, making every mouthful an adventure for your palate. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table with family or treating yourself to a cozy solo evening in, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and heartiness all in one satisfying plate.
This beginner-friendly one-pot wonder takes just 15 minutes of hands-on prep and about 30 minutes of cooking, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is precious but taste is non-negotiable. With roughly 600 calories per generous serving, it’s substantial enough to be a full meal without the need for elaborate sides—though a crisp green salad or some crunchy garlic bread would certainly elevate the experience. Rich Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, lending its nutty complexity, and fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top bring a burst of herbal brightness that ties everything together. No matter your level of kitchen expertise, this creamy sausage rigatoni is designed to guide you through simple steps for spectacular results—guaranteed to earn you compliments and empty plates every single time.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY SAUSAGE RIGATONI
To build layers of flavor in this dish, each ingredient plays a special role—from tender pasta to aromatic herbs. Below, you’ll find the key components that transform simple pantry staples into a comforting, rich dinner everyone will love.
- Rigatoni pasta
These sturdy tubes are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce in every chamber, ensuring each bite is generously coated with flavor.
- Italian sausage
Casings removed, this savory meat adds depth and a touch of spice. As it browns, it releases flavorful fats that build a robust foundation for the sauce.
- Olive oil
A splash of high-quality olive oil creates the right environment for browning sausage and sautéing aromatics without sticking.
- Onion
Diced and softened, onions bring a natural sweetness that rounds out the acidity of tomatoes and richness of cream.
- Garlic
Minced to release its pungent aroma, garlic infuses the sauce with a classic Italian fragrance that brightens the entire dish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes
A pinch adds a gentle heat, waking up your senses without overwhelming the creamy texture.
- Chicken broth
Used to deglaze the pan and capture every browned bit of flavor, chicken broth adds savory richness and a hint of umami.
- Heavy cream
This silky ingredient transforms the sauce into a luxurious coating, balancing acidity with its smooth, full-bodied texture.
- Crushed tomatoes
Providing vibrant red color and bright tomato flavor, they lend natural sweetness and acidity to the creamy base.
- Italian seasoning
A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the sauce with classic Mediterranean aromas.
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Stirred in at the end, it melts into the sauce, imparting a salty, nutty finish that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper
Essential for seasoning, these simple staples allow you to adjust taste to your preference.
- Fresh basil leaves
Chopped and sprinkled on top, basil adds a fresh, herbal note that cuts through the richness and brightens each plate.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY SAUSAGE RIGATONI
Let’s walk through these simple steps to transform raw ingredients into a bowl of irresistible, creamy sausage rigatoni. Follow along and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in about 45 minutes, from start to finish.
1. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain well and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water in case you need to adjust sauce consistency.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and the removed-casing Italian sausage. Break up the sausage with a spoon as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly and release flavorful fat. Continue browning for about 5–7 minutes until fully cooked, then remove the sausage to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until these aromatics become fragrant and vibrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the broth simmer for about 2 minutes to concentrate flavors and deglaze the pan.
5. Add the heavy cream, crushed tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until it becomes slightly thickened and creamy.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss it in the sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated in that rich, tomato-cream mixture.
7. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, stirring gently to combine and heat through for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavors.
8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce until completely incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasonings as needed.
9. Serve the creamy sausage rigatoni hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil leaves for a final pop of color and freshness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY SAUSAGE RIGATONI
Before you dish up, think about complementary flavors, textures, and accompaniments that will take your creamy sausage rigatoni from delicious to unforgettable. The goal is to enhance the comfort and richness of the pasta while adding contrast in freshness, crunch, or acidity. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner at home or serving a crowd, these ideas will help you present a well-rounded meal that highlights the hearty pasta as the star of the show. Don’t be afraid to personalize your table setting with simple touches—a crisp green salad, a loaf of crusty bread, or a glass of wine can make all the difference in creating a complete dining experience.
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess and add a refreshing crunch.
- Serve alongside garlic bread or a warm baguette brushed with herbed butter for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
- Offer a selection of Italian wines, such as a medium-bodied Chianti or a bright Pinot Grigio, to complement the sausage’s richness and the sauce’s acidity.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an elegant finish that elevates presentation and flavor.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY SAUSAGE RIGATONI
Cooking once and enjoying twice (or more!) is one of the best perks of making creamy sausage rigatoni. Proper storage ensures that the sauce stays smooth, the pasta retains its shape, and all the layers of flavor remain bright and delicious. Whether you want to save leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch or batch-cook for the week ahead, follow these tips for maintaining freshness, preventing dryness, and reheating without losing any of that silky texture. With a few simple steps, this comfort food can be a make-ahead hero in your kitchen, ready to heat and serve whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pasta to minimize air exposure and prevent a skin from forming on the sauce.
- Freeze in meal-sized portions using freezer-safe bags or containers. Label each with the date, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it’s become too thick. Stir frequently to distribute heat evenly.
- For a quick microwave reheating method, transfer a single portion to a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water or broth on top, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.
CONCLUSION
This creamy sausage rigatoni recipe brings together the comforting flavors of Italian sausage, rich heavy cream, and bright crushed tomatoes in a dish that’s both approachable and unforgettable. We’ve covered everything from key ingredients and step-by-step instructions to serving ideas and storage tips, giving you the tools to create a satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate. As a beginner-friendly, one-pot meal with just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, it’s designed to fit busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike. The combination of bold, savory sausage, silky sauce, and tender rigatoni is perfectly balanced by the fresh pop of basil and nutty Parmesan—truly a delightful blend that will earn you raves at the table.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later so you can revisit these instructions whenever you need a reliable, delicious meal idea. You’ll also find a FAQ section below for quick answers to common questions and troubleshooting tips. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your comments, questions, or feedback! Whether you’re curious about substitutions, timing adjustments, or simply want to talk pasta love, drop a note and let’s chat. Happy cooking!
Creamy Sausage Rigatoni
Description
This creamy sausage rigatoni is a delightful blend of savory Italian sausage, rich heavy cream, and vibrant crushed tomatoes, creating a comforting dish that'll please any crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sausage. Cook, breaking up the sausage with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet, and let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
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Add the heavy cream, crushed tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
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Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
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Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, stirring gently to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve the creamy sausage rigatoni hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil leaves.
Note
- For a spicier dish, add more crushed red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute regular sausage with turkey Italian sausage for a lighter option.
- Use high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor impact.
- Rigatoni pasta is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, but penne can work if rigatoni is unavailable.
