Go Back

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

A deliciously creamy pasta dish featuring Italian sausage, rigatoni, and a smooth Parmesan sauce that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 640
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta (Get your favorite brand; Barilla works well.)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (Sweet or spicy according to preference.)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (Vital for creaminess.)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated preferred, but pre-grated works.)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (Important for flavor.)
  • 1 cup spinach (Optional for color and nutrition.)
  • to taste salt (Sea salt recommended.)
  • to taste pepper
  • to taste red pepper flakes (Optional for heat.)
  • olive oil (Just a drizzle for cooking.)

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Sausage and Sauce
  1. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes smooth.
  6. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss to coat. If using spinach, add it now.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Quality pasta makes a difference; ensure sauce thickness by adding broth or pasta water if necessary. Pairs well with garlic bread and a light salad.