Creamy Sausage Rigatoni Dish

This creamy sausage rigatoni has become a go-to weeknight dinner for busy evenings when comfort food is a must. It combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage with tender pasta in a luscious tomato cream sauce that comes together in just one pan, saving time and cleanup.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I had little time but still wanted something satisfying. Now it’s often requested by my family because it feels indulgent without any complicated steps.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Adds necessary fat for cooking the sausage and helps develop flavor& choose extra virgin for best taste
• Italian sausage: Crumbled to release spices directly into the sauce& select good quality fresh sausage for optimal flavor
• Rigatoni: The ridged pasta holds the sauce beautifully& opt for high-quality semolina pasta for the best texture
• Chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture for cooking the pasta so it absorbs more flavor& homemade or low-sodium store-bought works well
• Heavy cream: Brings a rich smoothness to the sauce& whole cream provides the best texture and flavor balance
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs flavor punch& avoid pre-minced for stronger taste
• Italian seasoning or Herbs from Provence: A fragrant herb blend that ties the sauce flavors together& pick freshly ground if possible
• Tomato sauce: Use a good quality tomato pasta or marinara sauce to provide a savory tomato base
• Fresh spinach: Adds color and a mild earthy freshness& choose vibrant, crisp leaves for best wilted texture
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper: To season& add salt carefully depending on sausage saltiness and taste
• Red pepper flakes: Optional spice boost to customize heat& add to personal preference

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage:

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook for about five minutes, stirring and breaking up the meat with a spoon until it is completely cooked through. Drain off any excess grease or liquid to keep the sauce from becoming oily.

Combine Main Ingredients:

Into the same skillet with the cooked sausage, add the uncooked rigatoni pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato sauce. Stir everything thoroughly to combine the ingredients evenly.

Simmer the Pasta:

Turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the rigatoni cook for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Watch for the rigatoni to become al dente, tender but still with a slight bite.

Add the Spinach:

Once the pasta is nearly done, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for a couple more minutes on medium heat while stirring frequently until the spinach wilts to your liking. Alternatively, remove the skillet from the heat, add the spinach on top, cover with the lid, and allow it to wilt indoors the residual heat for about four minutes before stirring.

Adjust Sauce Thickness and Final Seasoning:

If you prefer a thicker sauce, keep the skillet on medium heat a little longer while continuing to stir. Finally, remove from heat and season with salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you wish. Keep in mind that the sausage may already provide enough saltiness, so taste before adding extra salt.

I love how this dish balances indulgence with freshness thanks to the spinach. My family’s gathered stories include the first time I made it during a movie night — it became an instant favorite and almost always requests the leftovers the next day.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the pasta tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Italian sausage for spicy chorizo for a smoky twist or use sweet sausage for a milder dish. Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a slightly lighter sauce. Spinach can be replaced with kale or arugula if you want a bolder green.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving to add a salty, nutty finish. Crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

This creamy sausage rigatoni is a comforting and straightforward dish perfect for busy nights, combining hearty flavors with a quick, one-pan method.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of sausage works best for this dish?

Italian sausage, preferably mild or spicy based on preference, provides ideal flavor and texture.

→ Can I use different pasta instead of rigatoni?

Yes, other tubular pastas like penne or ziti can be substituted with similar cooking results.

→ How do I know when the pasta is al dente?

Check pasta texture by tasting; it should be firm but cooked through, not mushy.

→ Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Adding more red pepper flakes or choosing spicy Italian sausage will increase heat levels.

→ Can fresh spinach be replaced with another green?

Baby kale or swiss chard can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly for tenderness.