Description
Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is a hearty pasta dish with Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and a creamy Parmesan finish. Perfect for a comforting dinner for family or guests.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 lbs Italian sausage (or 1 lb for less sausage)
- 2 (28-ounce) cans whole or crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned.
- Stir in tomatoes, basil, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes. Blend tomatoes if using whole ones.
- Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Stir heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Mix until creamy and heated through.
- Toss cooked rigatoni in the sauce until fully coated. Serve warm and garnish as desired.
Notes
- Use spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian