Who can resist the allure of a creamy, indulgent pasta dish like Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni? This recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage with rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni for a dish that’s pure comfort on a plate. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a special meal for friends, this dish will surely impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the magic of making it!
Ingredients
- 400g rigatoni pasta
- 200g Italian sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Meanwhile, this is a great time to prepare your other ingredients, such as slicing the Italian sausage and chopping your onions.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced Italian sausage. Cook the sausage until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the onions and garlic, forming a creamy base for your sauce. Add the drained diced tomatoes and let the mixture simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir well to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked rigatoni, gently tossing to ensure every piece is generously covered with creamy goodness. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for that extra burst of freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni
This dish is best served fresh off the stove, while the sauce is still luscious and creamy. Pair it with a crisp garden salad and a slice of garlic bread to create a satisfying meal. For a beverage, a glass of chilled white wine or a mild red complements this rich pasta beautifully.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
The key to mastering this recipe lies in the quality of your ingredients. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan to achieve the best flavor and texture. Also, when cooking the pasta, ensure it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming overly soft when mixed with the sauce.
Pump Up the Protein – High Protein Version
If you’re looking to boost the protein content in this delicious dish, consider adding more Italian sausage or even integrating a grilled chicken breast sliced into strips. This twist not only pumps up the protein but also introduces another layer of taste that complements the creamy texture marvelously. Additionally, you can swap in chickpea pasta instead of the traditional rigatoni for extra protein without sacrificing taste.
Lean and Healthy – Low Carb Adaptation
For those watching their carb intake, replace the rigatoni with zucchini noodles to keep things light and keto-friendly. Start by spiralizing fresh zucchini, and follow the rest of the recipe as outlined. Not only does this method cut down on carbs, but it also adds a refreshing crunch to the dish. This version retains all the sumptuous flavor while fitting seamlessly into a low-carb lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
This creamy concoction stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to one month. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely, this recipe is quite versatile. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary.
- Are there dairy-free alternatives? You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative to create a similar texture.
- What if I don’t have fresh basil? Dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount by half to avoid overpowering the dish.
- How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? Stir constantly while adding the cheese and ensure the cream doesn’t boil.
Share the Italian Love – Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is an easy-to-make, delectable option for anyone craving comfort food with a gourmet twist. It’s perfect for everything from casual dinners to special occasions. Try the low-carb version if you seek a light alternative, or power up the protein for more energy. If you loved this recipe, share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to leave a comment on how it turned out for you!
Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- rigatoni pasta
- Italian sausage
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- heavy cream
- diced tomatoes
- Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper
- fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Steps
- Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente, as per package instructions.
- Sauté sliced Italian sausage in a skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through.
- Add chopped onions and garlic to the skillet, cooking until onions are translucent.
- Pour in the heavy cream and diced tomatoes, simmering until mixed well.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, stir in cooked rigatoni, and add grated Parmesan.
- Season with salt and pepper, serve hot with fresh basil garnish.