Description
This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a deliciously rich and flavorful dish combining crumbled Italian sausage, tender rigatoni, and a creamy sauce with garlic and Italian seasoning. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s both hearty and satisfying with an optional spicy kick from red pepper flakes. Customize with cheese or veggies for extra flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 15 oz Italian sausage (crumbled)
- 8 oz rigatoni (uncooked)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs de Provence)
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- Salt and coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook for 5 minutes until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces. Drain any excess grease. -
Combine Key Ingredients:
Add uncooked rigatoni, chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine. -
Simmer and Cook:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until pasta is al dente. -
Incorporate Spinach:
Add spinach and stir until it wilts, or allow residual heat to wilt it. -
Adjust the Consistency:
If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the sauce. -
Season and Serve:
Remove from heat. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Pasta Choice: Rigatoni, penne, or ziti work best; avoid using long pasta.
- Customizing Heat: Use hot Italian sausage and red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
- Make It Cheesier: Add Parmesan or Pecorino Romano before serving for a cheesy twist.
- Thicker Sauce: Reduce the chicken broth or cook uncovered longer to achieve a thicker sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American