If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s both creamy and satisfying, you’ve come to the right place! My Creamy Sausage Rigatoni recipe is packed with flavor and super easy to make. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a meal that pleases everyone at your table. Get ready to savor each bite of this delicious meal that combines creamy sauce, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 12 oz. rigatoni pasta
– 1 lb. Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
You can pick different types of Italian sausage based on your taste. If you like heat, go for spicy sausage. For a milder flavor, choose the mild version. You can also skip the red pepper flakes if you want no spice at all.
When it comes to pasta, rigatoni works best for this dish. It holds the sauce well. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free rigatoni.
Using fresh spinach adds a nice color and flavor. However, you can swap it for kale or arugula if you prefer.
For the best taste, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The pre-grated kind may not melt as smoothly and can alter the sauce’s texture.
This creamy sausage rigatoni recipe is easy to customize. You can add more veggies, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to boost nutrition and flavor.Enjoy your cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Rigatoni
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water. This helps season the pasta. Next, add the rigatoni to the pot. Cook it according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still be firm when bitten. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the rigatoni and set it aside.
Browning the Sausage
Now, let’s brown the sausage. Use a large skillet and heat olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the sausage. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. If you use different sausage types, check the cooking time. For turkey sausage, it may take a bit longer. Aim for a nice, even brown color for the best flavor.
Making the Creamy Sauce
To make the creamy sauce, pour in heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with the sausage. Stir well to mix everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It should bubble lightly. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and creates a rich sauce. Stir regularly and watch the heat. Too high can burn the sauce. After simmering, it should thicken slightly and be ready for the next step.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
For the best skillet, use a large, heavy-bottomed pan. This helps heat evenly. A non-stick skillet makes for easy clean-up. Always warm your ingredients before cooking. Room temperature sausage cooks better and mixes well with the sauce.
Perfecting the Flavor
To enhance the sauce, add salt and pepper while cooking. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Fresh ingredients, like garlic and spinach, have more taste than dried ones. They make the dish bright and vibrant.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this creamy sausage rigatoni with a light red wine, like Pinot Noir. A simple side salad works well to balance the dish. You can top your rigatoni with extra Parmesan or fresh basil for a pop of flavor.
