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Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni Recipe

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni Recipe

5.2 from 13 reviews

Indulge in a rich and flavorful dish with this Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni recipe. The combination of hearty Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, tangy tomatoes, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 Tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 large Onion, diced
  • 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 lbs. Italian Sausage (may use 1 lb. if you want less sausage)
  • (2) 28-ounce cans Whole or Crushed Tomatoes

Seasonings:

  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil, chopped (or 1 Tablespoon dried basil)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Oregano, chopped (or 1 Tablespoon dried oregano)
  • 1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
  • 2 teaspoons Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper

Sauce and Pasta:

  • 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 1 1/2 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 lb. Rigatoni Pasta

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then add the diced onion and cook for 7-8 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and Italian sausage, cooking for an additional 7-8 minutes until the sausage begins to brown.
  2. Cook the Pasta: While the sausage is cooking, fill a separate large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add a generous amount of salt to the water and then add the rigatoni. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes for al dente.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: Add the canned tomatoes to the sausage mixture. If using whole tomatoes, blend them in a blender until smooth. Stir in the fresh basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture come to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Make It Creamy: Add the heavy cream and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the rigatoni and add it to the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta. If you prefer a less saucy dish, let the sauce simmer for an additional 10 minutes to reduce.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni, Pasta Recipe, Italian Sausage Pasta, Creamy Pasta Dish