Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Name: Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces rigatoni pasta; 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Published: November 12, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce and savory sausage creates a mouthwatering flavor that satisfies.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and comforting flavors.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch for leftovers that reheat beautifully for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe, gather your kitchen tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Wooden spoon
Colander
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling the rigatoni pasta to al dente perfection.
Skillet: Used for browning the sausage and creating the creamy sauce.
Colander: Helps drain the pasta efficiently without losing any noodles.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces rigatoni pasta

For the Sauce

1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta in a colander but reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage.
Use a wooden spoon to break up the sausage as it cooks until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet with cooked sausage; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine.
Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet with sauce; stir gently to coat all noodles.
If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Garnish

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley on top. Enjoy your Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Serving your Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe can enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Family Style

Serve the rigatoni in a large bowl for a communal feel, allowing everyone to help themselves.

Individual Plates

Plate the pasta in individual servings with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of elegance.

Garnished with Cheese

Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese to add a rich flavor and creamy texture.

With Fresh Herbs

Add chopped basil or parsley as a garnish to elevate the dish’s aroma and visual appeal.

Accompanied by Bread

Serve with crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite delightful.

How to Perfect Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe, consider these helpful tips.

Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality sausage and fresh pasta for maximum flavor.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the rigatoni is cooked al dente, so it holds its shape well in the sauce.
Balance Flavors: Adjust seasoning gradually; taste as you go to get just the right balance.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients and color.
Finish with Cream: Stir in heavy cream at the end for that luscious creamy texture.
Let It Rest: Allow the pasta to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps enhance flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Pairing your Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe with complementary sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread
A classic choice, perfect for mopping up leftover sauce.
Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds freshness to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy contrast and vibrant color on the plate.
Bruschetta
Tomato bruschetta brings a burst of flavor that complements the creaminess of the pasta.
Roasted Asparagus
Seasoned roasted asparagus adds a touch of sophistication and crunch.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make for an elegant side that balances richness.
Italian Antipasto Platter
A mix of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers variety and enhances your dinner spread.
Zucchini Noodles
For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles lightly sautéed as an additional side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your pasta and sauce properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your dish and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
Using low-quality sausage: Not all sausages are created equal. Choose high-quality sausage for rich flavor. Fresh ingredients make a big difference.
Neglecting to reserve pasta water: This step is crucial! The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce and pasta together. Always save a cup before draining.
Not allowing the sauce to thicken: Rushing the cooking process can lead to a watery sauce. Let it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency for maximum creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Label with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring between each interval.
Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausages based on your preferences.

How do I make my sauce thicker?

To thicken your sauce, let it simmer longer or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water until you achieve your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything ahead of time. Just store it separately and combine before serving.

What can I serve with Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish, balancing out the richness of the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even trying different sauces. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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