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Easy Italian Sausage Rigatoni – Cozy Pasta Night Favorite

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This Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni combines savory sausage, tender pasta, and a tomato cream sauce into a rich, satisfying dinner. A one-skillet comfort meal perfect for busy nights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste or 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • ¾ cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • ¼ cup chopped parsley or basil (optional)

  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

  • Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water. Drain and set aside.

  • Brown sausage in olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove from pan.

  • Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and red pepper flakes.

  • Stir in tomato paste or crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

  • Add cream, stir well, and simmer until thickened slightly.

  • Return sausage and pasta to the pan. Toss to coat in sauce.

  • Stir in Parmesan and adjust consistency with pasta water if needed.

  • Garnish with parsley or basil and serve hot.

Notes

  • Add spinach, kale, or mushrooms for a veggie boost.

  • Substitute with turkey or plant-based sausage if desired.

  • Leftovers keep well for 3–4 days in the fridge.