Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a rich and indulgent pasta dish that combines the savory flavors of crumbled Italian sausage, tender rigatoni, and a luscious creamy sauce. With the addition of garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh spinach, this recipe packs in layers of flavor that will leave you craving more. The creamy sauce is made with a blend of chicken broth and heavy cream, making it silky smooth and perfect for coating the pasta. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for the weekend, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s simple to prepare, and the ingredients come together effortlessly to create a comforting, satisfying meal. The spinach adds a fresh touch, while the sausage delivers a hearty, savory flavor, making each bite a perfect balance of textures and tastes. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes. Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves rich, creamy pasta dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.

2. Rich and Creamy

The combination of heavy cream, chicken broth, and sausage creates a rich and indulgent sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and fills you up.

3. Full of Flavor

With the savory taste of Italian sausage, the aromatic garlic, and the earthiness of spinach, this dish has a depth of flavor that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

4. Customizable

You can adjust the recipe to your liking by adding more heat with hot Italian sausage and red pepper flakes, or by opting for a vegetarian version using mushrooms or plant-based sausage.

5. Great for Leftovers

This pasta holds up well as leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a tasty lunch the next day.

Ingredients

Olive oil
Italian sausage (crumbled)
Rigatoni (uncooked)
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Garlic (minced)
Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
Tomato sauce
Fresh spinach
Salt and coarsely ground black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausage for mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free meal.
Cheesy Version: Add Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for extra richness and flavor.
Thicker Sauce: Reduce the amount of chicken broth or simmer the sauce uncovered for a thicker consistency.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease from the pan.

Step 2: Combine Key Ingredients

Add the uncooked rigatoni, chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato sauce to the skillet with the sausage. Stir the mixture well to combine.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally, then cover the skillet and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the sauce.

Step 4: Incorporate Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach is wilted, or simply let the residual heat wilt the spinach.

Step 5: Adjust the Consistency

If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook the pasta uncovered for an additional few minutes to reduce the sauce further.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the mixture uncovered for a few more minutes.
For added flavor, top the finished dish with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese.
If you don’t have rigatoni, you can substitute with penne or ziti, as they are similarly shaped and will hold the sauce well.
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or a little bit of milk to loosen it up.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy sausage rigatoni with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complement the richness of the dish. A glass of white wine or a light red wine pairs nicely with the creamy sauce and sausage.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Sausage Rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a bit of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen the sauce before microwaving or reheating on the stovetop.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra chicken broth or cream if needed to restore the creamy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian version.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

While rigatoni is ideal for this dish, you can substitute with penne, ziti, or any other short pasta that will hold the sauce well.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for added heat.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the sausage ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and combine everything together.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. Ensure that the sausage and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

6. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in place of fresh spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

7. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, make sure to stir occasionally and cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.

8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more flavor and texture.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream.

10. Can I make this dish without garlic?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of garlic, you can omit it, though it will alter the flavor profile of the dish slightly.

Conclusion

Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage with the rich creaminess of the sauce. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that is perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to relaxed weekend dinners. The versatility of this recipe means you can easily customize it to suit your tastes, whether you prefer a spicier dish, a vegetarian alternative, or a cheesy topping. With its indulgent flavor and satisfying texture, Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a pasta dish everyone will love.