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Creamy Italian sausage rigatoni served in a bowl, garnished with parsley.

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

A delightful creamy pasta dish combining hearty rigatoni, savory Italian sausage, and a rich sauce that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta Choose whole-wheat for added fiber.
  • 1 lb Italian sausage Mild or spicy, based on preference. For a leaner option, opt for turkey or chicken sausage.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Low-sodium options keep it healthy.
Flavor Enhancers
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast can substitute for a vegan option.
  • 1 ea onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced For aromatics and flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Classic Italian herb.
  • 1 tsp dried basil Classic Italian herb.
  • to taste fresh parsley for garnish Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water, then add the rigatoni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
  2. Tip: Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce's consistency later.
Brown the Sausage
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Tip: If using turkey sausage, ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
Sauté Aromatics
  1. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until soft, around 3-4 minutes.
  2. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Sauce
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and the heavy cream, stirring gently. Add the dried oregano and basil.
  2. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Combine With Pasta
  1. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
  2. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
Serve
  1. Plate your Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Feel free to experiment with ingredients; for instance, swapping heavy cream for coconut cream introduces a tropical flavor. Storing tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to 3 months.