Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta

The aroma of sizzling sausage wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This is not just any meal; it is Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta, a dish that invites you to take a seat at the table and relish every single bite. Imagine forkfuls of perfectly cooked rigatoni coated in a rich tomato sauce sprinkled with herbs that dance on your taste buds.

Growing up, this dish was a staple at family gatherings, where laughter mingled with the delightful scents wafting from grandma’s kitchen. It always felt like an event waiting to happen whenever we gathered around the table for this comforting classic. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends, this dish brings people together with its heartwarming charm.

Sharing this dish always leaves my friends asking for seconds and compliments flowing like wine at an Italian wedding.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rigatoni Pasta: Choose high-quality rigatoni; its ridges hold onto sauces beautifully.
• Italian Sausage: Use sweet or spicy sausage based on your flavor preference; remove casings before cooking.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall richness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates the flavors; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for quality crushed tomatoes; they form the base of your sauce.
• Onion: Finely diced onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for best results.
• Basil and Oregano: Fresh herbs are ideal for authenticity but dried works too in a pinch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh Parmesan provides that final touch of indulgence when serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente—this usually takes about 10-12 minutes.

Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add sliced sausage. Cook until browned and crispy—about 5-7 minutes—stirring occasionally.

Add Aromatics: Once the sausage is golden brown, mix in minced garlic and diced onions. Sauté until fragrant and onions are soft—around 3 minutes will do!

Create the Sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes along with dried oregano and fresh basil. Stir well and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes—this allows all those glorious flavors to meld together.

Toss the Rigatoni: Drain cooked rigatoni (don’t forget to save some pasta water) before adding it directly into your sauce. Toss gently until evenly coated—add reserved water if needed to reach desired consistency.

Serve with Style: Plate your delightful creation into bowls while generously sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top. Add extra basil leaves for color because we eat with our eyes first!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta ready to be devoured! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about why food is such an integral part of our lives.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the Italian sausage in a pan, then cook the rigatoni until al dente while you prepare the sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time, maximizing flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional ingredients for a personal flair. Try adding spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color or switch to gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Sharing this dish with friends always brings back memories of laughter and compliments around the dinner table; it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta besides rigatoni?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape works, but choose one that holds sauce well.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for hearty flavor.

What should I serve with Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly and balances flavors.

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Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta

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Savor the rich and comforting Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta, a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

• Rigatoni pasta
• Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Canned crushed tomatoes
• Onion
• Fresh basil and oregano
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and diced onion; sauté until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
4. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil; let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Mix the cooked rigatoni into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 440
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: - Experiment by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. - For a vegetarian option, substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.