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Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

A delightful Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni recipe, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Rigatoni Pasta Can substitute with penne or fusilli.
For the Sauce
  • 1 lb Italian Sausage For vegetarian, use plant-based sausage.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for sautéing.
  • 1 medium Diced Onion Sweetens the sauce base.
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Key ingredient for flavor.
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes 400g can, foundational element.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Brings desired creaminess.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Good for thinning the sauce.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Enhances flavor profile.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional for spice.
  • to taste Salt Adjust according to preference.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust according to preference.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for vegan.
  • to taste Fresh Basil Leaves For garnish.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large Skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Cook the Aromatics: Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, then add minced garlic for another minute.
  4. Make the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Season and let simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat. Let it absorb flavors for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Finish with Cheese: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Cook for an additional minute and remove from heat.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Plate the dish hot, garnishing with fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Using good quality sausage elevates the dish; be careful with garlic to avoid bitterness. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen for later enjoyment.

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