Preparing...
Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni
When it comes to decadent pasta dishes, this Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni will have you singing "That’s Amore!" after just one bite!
Prepare yourself; once you start serving this Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni, there’s no going back!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the skillet with sausage mixture. Mix well.
Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, combining until fully coated, adding reserved pasta water if necessary. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Kitchen Essentials
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon for stirring
Chef's Notes
For extra flavor, use spicy Italian sausage.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Troubleshooting
Variations
Healthy Swaps
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad.
Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Suitable Diets
Presentation Ideas
Storage & Conservation
Leftover Ideas
Mistakes to Avoid
Common Questions
Yes, any pasta shape you prefer can work!
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit Parmesan.
Yes, just store in airtight containers and consume within 3 months.
Consider adding oregano or fresh parsley.
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
It's mild, but you can use hot sausage for more heat.
Absolutely! Mozzarella or ricotta complements this dish well.