Description
Savor the rich flavors of sausage rigatoni, a delightful pasta dish that combines perfectly cooked rigatoni with a creamy, meaty sauce infused with garlic and aromatic herbs. This crowd-pleaser is ideal for family dinners or quick weeknight meals, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Easy to customize according to your pantry staples, this recipe transforms any gathering into a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook rigatoni until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil, then add sausage. Brown it while breaking it apart until fully cooked.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in minced garlic for about a minute, then add crushed tomatoes. Mix well.
- Stir in Cream and Season: Reduce heat to low and incorporate heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained rigatoni to the skillet and toss gently until coated.
- Finish with Cheese and Basil: Remove from heat, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and basil on top. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - Feel free to swap the sausage for chicken or turkey for lighter options. - Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container; reheat gently on the stovetop.