Print

Creamy Rigatoni with Italian Sausage

Creamy rigatoni pasta with Italian sausage and herbs in a large blue Dutch oven.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy Rigatoni with Italian Sausage is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring savory sausage, a velvety cream sauce, and bold Italian flavors—perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

  • Rigatoni pasta – perfect for holding creamy sauces
  • Italian sausage – provides a savory, spiced flavor base
  • Heavy cream – adds richness and smooth texture
  • Parmesan cheese – boosts umami and balances the cream
  • Garlic and onion – essential aromatics for depth
  • Tomato paste – enhances richness with a subtle sweetness
  • Olive oil and butter – combination for sautéeing with flavor
  • Red pepper flakes – optional kick of heat

Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
  3. Add the Italian sausage, cook while breaking it into small pieces until browned.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and let the sauce simmer gently until slightly thickened.
  6. Add cooked rigatoni and mix well to coat evenly with the sauce.
  7. Stir in parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to customize.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  • This dish is not freezer-friendly but reheats well within 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeeasily.com/creamy-rigatoni-with-italian-sausage/