Ingredients
– 12 oz rigatoni pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small yellow onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is straightforward when you follow these easy steps:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and allow to cook for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, followed by the drained rigatoni. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
7. Add Spinach: If using, fold in the fresh spinach until wilted, about 2 minutes.
8. Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
9. Serve Immediately: Plate the rigatoni and garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese if you like.
These steps will guide you in creating an incredible Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni that will delight your taste buds effortlessly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Encourage generous portions, but consider smaller servings if serving multiple dishes to allow guests to try everything.
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g