Sausage Rigatoni is a delicious and comforting dish that features hearty rigatoni pasta tossed in a rich and savory tomato-based sauce with flavorful sausage. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Sausage Rigatoni
Why This Sausage Rigatoni Is the Best
- Rich Tomato Sauce: The tomato-based sauce is rich and savory, perfectly coating the rigatoni pasta.
- Flavorful Sausage: The sausage adds a hearty and delicious flavor to the dish.
- Hearty Pasta: Rigatoni pasta is perfect for holding onto the sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
- Beautiful Presentation: Garnished with fresh herbs, this dish is visually appealing and appetizing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner option, Sausage Rigatoni is the perfect choice. The combination of rich sauce, hearty sausage, and tender pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes
- Rigatoni: A hearty, tube-shaped pasta that holds sauces well, making it perfect for this rich and flavorful sausage dish.
- Italian Sausage (Spicy or Mild): Provides the main protein and a delicious savory base for the dish. The choice between spicy or mild sausage determines the heat level of the dish.
- Onion: Adds a savory, slightly sweet base to the sauce, complementing the richness of the sausage.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, aromatic quality, elevating the flavor of the entire sauce.
- Diced Tomatoes (with juices): Adds freshness and a slight tanginess, providing a balanced base for the sauce.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Contributes to the thick texture of the sauce, giving it a rich consistency and deep tomato flavor.
- Heavy/Whipping Cream: Creates a creamy, velvety texture for the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and the spiciness of the sausage.
- Fresh Basil: Optional but recommended for a burst of fresh, herby flavor that complements the richness of the sauce and sausage.
- Salt & Pepper: Season to taste to enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami depth and creamy texture when sprinkled on top of the finished dish.
Sausage Rigatoni
Tips for Making the Best Sausage Rigatoni
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality sausage, tomatoes, and herbs.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the rigatoni just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Season Generously: Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the dish with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve Sausage Rigatoni with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for extra nutrition.
- With Parmesan Cheese: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
A Must Try
Imagine diving into a bowl of this hearty Sausage Rigatoni—each bite filled with tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and flavorful sausage, all garnished with fresh herbs. Whether you’re sharing it with family and friends or enjoying it on your own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Gather your ingredients and create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. You’ll love sharing this comforting dish with loved ones and making special moments even more flavorful!
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Sausage Rigatoni
Sausage Rigatoni features rigatoni pasta tossed in a creamy tomato sauce made with Italian sausage, garlic, onions, and both diced and crushed tomatoes. The richness of the sausage is balanced with the tanginess of the tomatoes and the smooth creaminess of heavy cream. Fresh basil and grated Parmesan finish the dish, adding fresh and savory notes for the perfect comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked rigatoni
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- 1 14 ounce can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 14 ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh basil torn optional, to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese optional to taste
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, following the instructions on the package.
- In the meantime, cook the sausage and onion in a skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then, drain some of the fat from the pan (I usually spoon it out), but don't worry about removing it all.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes. If it starts to bubble too vigorously, lower the heat slightly.
- Mix in the cream and basil (if using), then season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute or two, then toss with the drained pasta.
Notes
- For the best sauce consistency, I recommend using the specific type of tomatoes I suggested (diced and crushed). Also, be careful about substituting the cream with other options like milk or half-and-half, as the acidity in the tomatoes may cause it to curdle.
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Sausage Rigatoni