Creamy Sausage Rigatoni (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a quick, hearty, and indulgent meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce, combined with the savory sausage and pasta, creates a rich, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. With only one pan to clean, it’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

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 from Provence
• 15 oz tomato sauce (such as tomato pasta sauce or marinara)
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked rigatoni, chicken broth, heavy cream, and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow the pasta to cook in the liquid, uncovered, for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add the Spinach: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts.
5. Season and Finish: Season the dish with Italian seasoning, salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Stir well to combine and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and the spinach is wilted, remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use Different Meat: Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even ground beef for a lighter or different flavor.
• Add Cheese: For extra creaminess, stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese towards the end of cooking.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the dish for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it reheats.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of short pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you use.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the creamy sausage rigatoni for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding extra cream or broth if necessary.

Can I use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with a lower-fat cream, but the texture and richness will be different. For a creamier sauce, it’s best to use full-fat heavy cream.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried Italian seasoning. Just use about 3 teaspoons of fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried seasoning.

Is there a substitute for chicken broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water if you prefer. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas to enhance the dish with more flavor and nutrients.

How do I know when the pasta is done cooking?

The pasta is done when it is al dente, which means it’s firm to the bite but not hard in the center. Taste a piece of pasta to ensure it’s cooked through.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer. Sweet Italian sausage, spicy sausage, or even turkey sausage will work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is an easy and delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy sauce, savory sausage, and comforting pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something rich and flavorful. It’s quick, filling, and perfect for a family dinner. Whether you add extra veggies, cheese, or adjust the seasoning, this recipe can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy a warm, hearty meal in just 30 minutes with this simple and satisfying dish!

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