Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Recipe

There's nothing quite like a plate of Creamy Sausage Rigatoni to turn an ordinary dinner into a cozy, restaurant-worthy experience. Picture tender rigatoni coated in a velvety cream sauce, paired with the bold, savory flavor of Italian sausage—every bite is pure comfort.

this Recipe

This dish holds a special place in my heart because it’s my go-to recipe when I need something easy yet impressive. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this rigatoni never fails to wow.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try for your next meal!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Get ready to fall head over heels for this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni. It’s the ultimate combination of indulgence, simplicity, and versatility, perfect for home cooks of any skill level.

First, it’s quick and easy. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Perfect for weeknights or when you’re short on time!

Second, the flavors are outstanding. The savory, spiced sausage complements the creamy sauce perfectly, while the rigatoni’s ridges hold on to every drop of that luscious goodness.

This recipe is also family-friendly. Even picky eaters will fall in love with the creamy, cheesy sauce and comforting pasta base.

Finally, it’s endlessly customizable. Whether you want to add vegetables, swap in turkey sausage, or adjust the spice level, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Now that you’re excited, let’s explore the ingredients that make this dish shine!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni lies in its simple ingredients, each chosen to create a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here's a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Rigatoni Pasta: This tubular pasta with ridges is ideal for holding the creamy sauce. Penne or ziti work well as substitutes if needed. Cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Italian Sausage: Whether you prefer mild or spicy sausage, this is the star of the dish. The fat from the sausage adds incredible depth to the sauce. Remove the casings if using links for easy crumbling.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, heavy cream creates a rich and velvety texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works too, though the sauce will be less decadent.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding a nutty, salty flavor. Avoid pre-shredded varieties, as they don’t melt as smoothly.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics form the foundation of the sauce, enhancing its flavor with a subtle sweetness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended for a gentle kick of heat that complements the sausage.
• Chicken Broth: Helps thin the sauce while adding savory depth. You can substitute vegetable broth if preferred.

No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Making Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time.

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and the crumbled sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine Everything: Return the sausage to the skillet and add the cooked rigatoni. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the rigatoni to a serving dish, garnish with extra Parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes, and serve immediately.

This dish is ready in about 30 minutes and will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers of this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni (a rarity in my house!), it stores beautifully for future meals.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so reserve some pasta water or broth to loosen it when reheating.
• Freezing: While the pasta’s texture may change slightly, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative for a hearty, meat-free version.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice It Up: Use spicy Italian sausage and add more crushed red pepper flakes if you like a fiery kick.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rigatoni and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Feel free to experiment—cooking is all about making a recipe your own!

This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is guaranteed to become a household favorite. With its bold flavors, creamy texture, and endless customization options, it’s the perfect dish to brighten any day. Enjoy!

Print