Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

A Taste That Swirls in your Mouth

Ever had a pasta dish so rich and inviting that it wraps you in a warm hug? Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is exactly that! What makes this recipe a staple in my kitchen is its quick preparation and the one-pan magic that leaves less mess to tackle afterward. You’ll love how easily those savory flavors blend into a creamy, dreamy delight—perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends!

Why Make This Recipe

Why should you whip up this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni? Well, first of all, it’s ridiculously simple—who doesn’t love a no-fuss meal? Plus, it’s family-friendly, meaning even the pickiest eaters will gobble it up, leaving you to bask in the praises. And let’s be honest, cleaning a single pan is much better than navigating a whole kitchen full of pots and dishes, right?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 15 oz Italian sausage (crumbled)
• 8 oz rigatoni (uncooked)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and brown the crumbled sausage until golden.
2. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and rigatoni to the pan, giving it a good stir. Then pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce.
3. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the rigatoni is al dente (about 12-15 minutes).
4. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, turning a vibrant green.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer a little longer to thicken up—this is where the magic happens!
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes before serving to add a cheeky little kick.

How to Make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni (Overview)

Making this dish feels more like a fun dance than a chore. Start by brown that sausage—don’t be afraid to crank up the flavor! While the noodles cook, enjoy the blissful aroma of garlic sizzling away. Pro Tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic; it makes every bite unforgettable!

Once everything melds together in the pan, stir in that luscious cream like you’re giving it a cozy blanket. Finally, all that’s left is to season it to your taste and dive in!

How to Serve Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

When it comes to serving, think about adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. For a delightful crunch, pair it with some garlic bread or a simple garden salad. Just imagine—the creamy rigatoni mixed with the crispness of fresh veggies and the aroma wafting through your home. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

How to Store Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you can’t finish it all (but seriously, why not?), you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to bring back that luscious texture!

Tips to Make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

1. Don’t overcook the pasta. You want it slightly firm to hold up in the creamy sauce.
2. Use spicy sausage if you like a kick—it amplifies the flavor and fun.
3. Swap in whole wheat rigatoni for a healthier twist.
4. Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.
5. Play with your herbs—basil or oregano can bring a delightful new dimension!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Amp it up with some roasted vegetables for a medley of flavors. Want a vegan take? Substitute the sausage with lentils or plant-based crumbles and use a coconut milk alternative for that creamy vibe without the dairy. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love will work, but I recommend something sturdy like penne or farfalle.

Is this recipe make-ahead friendly?
For sure! You can cook your pasta and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze Creamy Sausage Rigatoni?
Yes! Portion it out into airtight containers and freeze for quick meals later. Just add a splash of cream when reheating to restore its creamy goodness.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

A rich and inviting pasta dish that's quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 15 oz Italian sausage (crumbled)
• 8 oz rigatoni (uncooked)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method

 

Cooking Steps

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and brown the crumbled sausage until golden.
2. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and rigatoni to the pan, giving it a good stir. Then pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce.
3. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the rigatoni is al dente (about 12-15 minutes).
4. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, turning a vibrant green.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer a little longer to thicken up.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta. You want it slightly firm to hold up in the creamy sauce. Try using spicy sausage for extra flavor, or swap in whole wheat rigatoni for a healthier option.