Name: Creamy Sausage Rigatoni: Indulge in this Delicious Dish!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 15 oz Italian sausage crumbled; 8 oz rigatoni uncooked; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cloves garlic minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs from Provence; 15 oz tomato sauce such as tomato pasta sauce or marinara; 5 oz fresh spinach; salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste; red pepper flakes to taste

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Creamy Sausage Rigatoni, a comforting pasta dish that is sure to captivate your taste buds. With its rich and velvety sauce perfectly coating each piece of pasta, it offers a symphony of tastes that comforts any food lover. This hearty meal combines succulent sausage and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Moreover, creamy pasta dishes like this not only fill your belly but also warm your heart. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is an excellent choice. So, grab your apron and get ready to whip up a plate of pure comfort!

Ingredients for Creamy Sausage Rigatoni:

To create a luscious plate of creamy sausage rigatoni, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 15 oz Italian sausage, crumbled
– 8 oz rigatoni (uncooked)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
– 15 oz tomato sauce (choose tomato pasta sauce or marinara)
– 5 oz fresh spinach
– Salt, to taste
– Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste
– Red pepper flakes, to taste

This delightful pasta dish combines savory tastes and creamy textures, making it a hit for any dinner table. For more creamy recipes that can add excitement to your meal planning, explore our creamy Tuscan chicken pasta for a delightful twist! Balancing the flavors of the sausage with the richness of cream and tomato results in a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy this comforting dish that is sure to become a family favorite!

How to Prepare:

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble 15 oz of Italian sausage into the skillet, cooking until browned and crumbly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Meanwhile, boil water in a separate pot and cook 8 oz of rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.

Once the sausage is ready, add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 2 minutes. Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Then, add 1 cup of heavy cream followed by 15 oz of your choice of tomato sauce, such as marinara or tomato pasta sauce. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and season with salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Once mixed, gently fold in 5 oz of fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt. Don’t forget to drain the rigatoni before adding it to the sauce. Toss everything together for a delightful blend. Serve warm, and for another creamy delight, check out this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe to expand your dinner choices.

Cooking Tips for Creamy Sausage Rigatoni:

To make the best Creamy Sausage Rigatoni, start with high-quality sausage. Whether you choose Italian or spicy, good meat enhances the dish’s flavor. Cook the sausage thoroughly, breaking it up as it browns. This creates a beautiful caramelization that adds depth to the sauce. While the sausage cooks, boil your rigatoni until al dente; this ensures it holds its shape in the creamy sauce.

For a richer texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the sauce along with your cheese. This creates a delightful creaminess that elevates the whole meal. If you’re interested in similar creamy dishes, explore this recipe for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, which can inspire your cooking adventure.

Lastly, don’t forget to garnish your dish! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated cheese adds brightness and an appealing finish. For more detailed instruction on cooking creamy sausage rigatoni, check this helpful guide that showcases simple techniques for a delicious result.

Variations :

If you’re looking to switch things up with your creamy sausage rigatoni, various variations are available to suit your palate. For a different protein twist, consider using chicken in place of sausage. A delightful option like Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta can inspire you to infuse new flavors into your dish, with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach adding vibrant colors and tastes.

For a vegetarian take, swap out sausage for roasted vegetables or mushrooms, adding extra creaminess with a rich cheese blend. Additionally, exploring different pasta shapes can elevate your meal; penne or farfalle can provide a unique texture. If you crave more spice, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Each twist keeps the dish exciting while maintaining that creamy goodness you love in your creamy sausage rigatoni!

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Sausage Rigatoni:

For a delightful meal experience, consider pairing your creamy sausage rigatoni with a fresh side salad. A simple arugula salad, tossed with balsamic vinaigrette, balances the richness of the pasta beautifully. Additionally, garlic bread is a must-have for soaking up the delicious sauce. You might like to try creamy garlic mashed potatoes as an alternative side; their smooth texture complements the rigatoni’s flavors perfectly.

For the finishing touch, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish even more. If you’re serving this creamy pasta for a special occasion, consider adding grilled vegetables on the side to provide a colorful and nutritious contrast. Also, a glass of Chardonnay or a light red wine pairs wonderfully, enhancing every bite of your creamy sausage rigatoni. Enjoy the luxurious taste while delighting your guests with these serving suggestions!

Storage tips for Creamy Sausage Rigatoni:

To store any leftover creamy sausage rigatoni, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture. For an additional creamy dish suggestion, check out this delightful Tuscan chicken pasta recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Sausage Rigatoni?

To prepare this delightful pasta dish, you’ll need rigatoni pasta, Italian sausage, heavy cream, garlic, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and tantalizing sauce that pairs beautifully with the pasta.

How can I make the sauce thicker for my creamy pasta?

To achieve a thicker sauce for your creamy sausage rigatoni, consider simmering the sauce longer to evaporate excess liquid. Additionally, incorporating a touch of grated parmesan can enhance the creaminess and thickness.

Can I substitute the sausage in this dish?

Certainly! You can swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian alternative, try using sautéed mushrooms or a blend of vegetables, which would also be delicious.

How spicy is Creamy Sausage Rigatoni?

The spiciness level largely depends on the type of sausage you choose. For a milder dish, use sweet Italian sausage. If you prefer some heat, opt for spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes while cooking.

Can I make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta dish can be prepared in advance! Just keep the sauce separate from the pasta until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the rigatoni from absorbing too much sauce and becoming soggy.

Are there any similar recipes to try?

If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, you might like this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. It features a similar rich sauce and is equally enticing, making it a great option for your next dinner!

Creamy Sausage Rigatoni: Indulge in this Delicious Dish!

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this creamy sausage rigatoni, featuring rich flavors of Italian sausage paired with a luscious cream sauce and fresh spinach, all enveloped in hearty pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil

15 oz Italian sausage crumbled

8 oz rigatoni uncooked

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

4 cloves garlic minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs from Provence

15 oz tomato sauce such as tomato pasta sauce or marinara

5 oz fresh spinach

salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste

red pepper flakes to taste

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned.
Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer.
Add the uncooked rigatoni, stir, and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
Once the pasta is cooked, fold in the fresh spinach until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Serve hot and enjoy your creamy sausage rigatoni!