Savory Sausage Rigatoni: A Flavorful Dinner Delight

Sausage rigatoni is that warm hug of a dish you crave after a long day, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine the rich, savory aroma of Italian sausage mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that makes every bite feel like a party in your mouth.

I remember the first time I made sausage rigatoni for my friends. It was an impromptu dinner gathering, and as the steam wafted through the kitchen, their eyes widened in anticipation. The laughter, the clinking of forks, and the satisfied sighs as they took their first bites—it was a moment I’ll never forget.

My friends still talk about that meal fondly, reminiscing about how they went back for thirds and even fourths.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rigatoni Pasta: I love using al dente rigatoni; its ridges catch the sauce beautifully.

• Italian Sausage: Choose either sweet or spicy sausage depending on your heat preference for flavor.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole or diced tomatoes; they add great texture and acidity to balance flavors.

• Fresh Basil: Use vibrant green basil leaves to elevate the dish with herbal freshness.

• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add a fragrant base that enhances all other flavors in the dish.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top for that irresistible cheesy finish—because who can resist cheese?

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil brings richness and depth to the sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil while you prepare other ingredients.

Sautéing Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes; you want them golden but not burnt.

Add the Sausage: Crumble the Italian sausage into the skillet with aromatics. Cook until browned and no longer pink inside, around 6-8 minutes. The smell will be heavenly!

Create the Sauce Base: Pour in canned tomatoes with their juices into the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for about 10 minutes while you cook your pasta.

Cook Rigatoni: Add rigatoni to boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta, reserving about half a cup of pasta water.

Combine Everything Together: Mix drained rigatoni into the skillet with sausage sauce. If it looks too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Bake It! : Transfer everything into a baking dish if desired or leave it on the stove for serving. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously on top before placing it in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Your kitchen will smell amazing by now! Serve hot with torn basil leaves sprinkled on top for freshness. Enjoy this hearty meal that’s sure to become a beloved favorite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage in a pan, then cook rigatoni while preparing the sauce. This approach saves time and maximizes flavor, allowing all elements to meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sausage for turkey or add sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover sausage rigatoni in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

Creating this dish reminds me of family gatherings where everyone gathered around the table, savoring each bite and sharing stories about their day.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is great, penne or fusilli also work well.

What kind of sausage should I use for the best flavor?

Italian sausage is ideal, but feel free to try chicken or turkey sausage too.

How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Replace sausage with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth for added depth.

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Sausage Rigatoni

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Sausage rigatoni is a delightful Italian dish that combines savory Italian sausage with al dente rigatoni, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. With its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation, every bite feels like a warm hug.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Ingredients

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• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
• 28 oz canned whole tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
3. Crumble the Italian sausage into the skillet and cook until browned (6-8 minutes).
4. Add canned tomatoes with their juices and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions; drain, reserving half a cup of pasta water.
6. Mix rigatoni into the sausage sauce; add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
7. Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 55mg