Easy Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta

The aroma of sizzling Italian sausage fills the kitchen, mingling with the rich scent of tomatoes and herbs. Picture a steaming bowl of rigatoni coated in a luscious sauce that clings to every curve, making your taste buds dance in anticipation.

This dish isn’t just about flavors; it’s about memories too. I remember the first time I made Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta for my friends during a cozy dinner gathering. The laughter and compliments were as abundant as the servings on their plates.

One memorable evening, my friends devoured the entire pot of this pasta and demanded seconds—definitely a win in my book!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Italian Sausage: Use spicy or sweet sausage based on your preference; just ensure it’s high-quality for maximum flavor.
• Rigatoni Pasta: Choose large tubes that hold sauce well; cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for added depth; they bring a rich sweetness to the sauce.
• Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped onion and minced garlic provide essential aromatic foundations for this dish.
• Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves for garnishing; they add a burst of freshness when sprinkled on top.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the dish’s richness; don’t skimp on this savory topping!
• Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil adds richness while sautéing the vegetables.
• Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all flavors throughout the cooking process.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant.

Add the Garlic and Sausage: Stir in minced garlic followed by crumbled Italian sausage. Cook until browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Create the Sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Toss with Rigatoni: Add cooked rigatoni into the skillet with sauce. Gently fold everything together until well combined and heated through.

Serve Hot: Plate your delicious Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta immediately, garnishing each serving with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.

This recipe will have everyone asking for your secrets! Enjoy your culinary adventure as you dive into this flavorful dish bursting with comforting goodness.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the Italian sausage first to lock in flavors, then cook the rigatoni while preparing the sauce. This sequence ensures everything melds perfectly for an unforgettable dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also swap out the sausage for ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to avoid drying out.

The first time I made Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta, my friends devoured it so quickly I barely managed a taste! Their compliments had me beaming with pride and excitement.

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal, penne or fusilli also work beautifully in this recipe.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to kick up the heat level.

Can I freeze leftovers of this pasta?

Yes, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months, ensuring delicious meals later.

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Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta

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• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Savor the rich flavors of Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta, a delightful dish that combines savory sausage, hearty rigatoni, and a robust tomato sauce for an unforgettable meal.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet)
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the rigatoni: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Brown sausage: Stir in minced garlic and crumbled sausage, cooking until browned.
4. Make the sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Combine: Fold cooked rigatoni into the sauce, mixing well until heated through.
6. Serve: Plate your pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg