Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s dressed in a rich and creamy sauce. This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a delightful medley of flavors that transports you straight to the heart of Italian cuisine. With the savory taste of Italian sausage and the velvety texture of a cream sauce, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the rigatoni according to the package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, letting it wait patiently while you prepare the sauce.
- In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the diced onion, and sauté until it becomes beautifully translucent, about 5 minutes. This is where the magic begins to unfold!
- Now, it’s time to introduce the star of the dish: the Italian sausage. Add it to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Allow it to brown and become fully cooked through, which should take about 8 minutes.
- Once the sausage is cooking away, toss in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and cook for another minute until the aroma of garlic fills your kitchen.
- Pour in the chicken broth and the heavy cream, stirring to combine all those wonderful flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts into the sauce, creating that rich and creamy consistency we all crave. Remember to season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, gently tossing it in the sauce until every piece is well-coated and bursting with flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for that lovely touch of freshness and color!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference. This dish can also be enhanced with a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor or some sautéed spinach for a pop of color and nutrition!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of sautéing is key in this recipe. Sautéing the onion and sausage not only builds the base flavor for the sauce but also ensures that each ingredient is cooked to perfection. Keeping an eye on the heat is essential to prevent burning the garlic and allowing the sausage to brown evenly.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and simply heat it up when ready to serve. Just be sure to cook the rigatoni fresh so it maintains its texture.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni holds the sauce beautifully, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or farfalle.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a glorious celebration of flavors that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. It embodies the essence of homestyle cooking, bringing comfort and joy to the dinner table. Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in, this dish is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest meals can bring us the greatest pleasure. Enjoy your culinary adventure!