Irresistible Sausage Rigatoni: Comfort Food Bliss

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of sausage rigatoni. Just imagine sinking your fork into those perfectly cooked tubes, coated in a rich, savory sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafting from the pot is enough to make you forget any diet plan you ever had, and the first bite? Pure bliss.

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was one of those evenings when all I wanted was comfort food after a long day. As soon as I served it, my family dove in with such enthusiasm that I almost felt like a culinary superhero. It quickly became our go-to family meal, perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings with friends. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

The night I first served sausage rigatoni, my kids declared me a “dinner wizard,” a title I proudly wear to this day.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Rigatoni Pasta: Choose sturdy pasta that holds sauce well; look for quality brands if possible.

• Italian Sausage: Use spicy or mild based on preference; fresh sausage gives the best flavor.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes for rich flavor; diced can work in a pinch.

• Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; make sure it’s finely chopped for even cooking.

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this ingredient!

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors; it’s worth using high-quality oil here.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness and flavor; always sprinkle generously before serving.

• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil elevates the dish—add just before serving for freshness.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they are translucent and fragrant. Then add minced garlic and stir until aromatic.

Add the Sausage: Crumble Italian sausage into the skillet, cooking until browned and no longer pink. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning.

Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in canned tomatoes (breaking them up slightly) along with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Simmer this delightful mixture for about 10 minutes until thickened.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet, mixing well with sauce. If it’s too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Serve with Garnish: Plate your sausage rigatoni, then sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil before serving hot. Enjoy every bite!

Follow these steps closely to ensure your dish turns out perfectly each time! Happy cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sauté the sausage first to render fat, then cook the rigatoni while preparing the sauce for a seamless flow.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color, or swap sausage for chicken for a lighter option.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

I remember the first time I made sausage rigatoni for friends; they devoured every bite and begged for seconds! It was a proud chef moment.

FAQ

What type of sausage works best for sausage rigatoni?

Italian sausage offers robust flavor, but any preferred variety can work nicely.

Can I make sausage rigatoni ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and reheat for easy serving.

What can I serve with sausage rigatoni?

A simple green salad and garlic bread complement this dish beautifully.

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Sausage Rigatoni

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Savor the comforting delight of this sausage rigatoni, where al dente pasta meets a rich, savory sauce bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready for an explosion of tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
• 28 oz canned whole tomatoes
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent; add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Crumble in the Italian sausage, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Mix cooked rigatoni with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
6. Serve topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg