Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Pasta Recipe delivers bold flavor with Italian sausage, cream, garlic, Parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Ingredients
- 400 g 14 oz rigatoni pasta
- 300 g 10 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth or pasta water
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp chili flakes adjust to taste
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes for a rosé-style sauce
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining—this helps loosen the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until deeply browned and cooked through. This caramelization adds so much flavor, so let it take its time.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
- Add the onion to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and chili flakes, cooking just until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Lower the heat and pour in the cream and chicken broth. Stir gently and let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened. This is where the kitchen starts to smell irresistible.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Pasta
- Stir in the Parmesan until melted and silky. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss until every piece is coated in sauce. Use reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
Step 6: Taste and Finish
- Season with salt and black pepper. Finish with fresh herbs and extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately while the sauce is glossy and creamy.