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.
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
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.
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.