Italian Rigatoni Pasta with Sausage Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Pasta:
1 pound rigatoni pasta
Salt, for pasta water
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference), casings removed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/4 cup red wine (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy sauce)
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes).
Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta and water aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine (if using). Add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Stir in the heavy cream, if using, for a rich, creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
4. Serve:
Divide the pasta among plates. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
💡 Tips:
Sausage Variations: Use a mix of sweet and spicy sausage for a balanced flavor, or go with chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost the veggie content of the dish.
Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stove and add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Rigatoni Pasta with Sausage is a rich, comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy. The combination of hearty sausage, tender pasta, and flavorful tomato sauce makes this meal perfect for any night of the week! 🍝