There’s something magical about a hearty bowl of Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta that makes you feel like you’re having dinner in a cozy trattoria in Rome. The aroma of sizzling sausages mingling with garlic and herbs wafts through the air, transporting you straight to culinary bliss. Each bite delivers an explosion of flavors—rich tomato sauce clinging to perfectly al dente rigatoni and savory sausage that brings a smile to your face.

I can’t help but reminisce about the first time I tried this delightful dish at my friend’s family gathering. It was one of those evenings where laughter filled the room, and plates were stacked high with glorious food. Everyone was raving about this pasta; it felt like a warm hug from the inside out! Trust me, this recipe will not only satisfy your cravings but also create lasting memories around your dinner table.

I remember making this dish for my family once, and their eyes widened with delight as they took their first bites!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Rigatoni Pasta: Opt for large rigatoni tubes; they hold sauce beautifully and create that satisfying bite.
• Italian Sausage: Use spicy or sweet sausage based on your preference; both add fantastic flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides an aromatic base that elevates every dish.
• Canned Tomatoes: Select whole peeled tomatoes for a rich sauce; crush them yourself for better texture.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness when sautéed until translucent.
• Dried Oregano: This herb brings out the classic Italian flavors and complements the richness of the sausage.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese gives a nutty finish; always sprinkle generously!
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor; use it liberally when cooking.
• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped basil at serving for a fragrant touch that brightens up the dish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they turn golden brown and aromatic.

Add the Sausage: Crumble in your choice of Italian sausage into the skillet. Cook until browned completely through while stirring occasionally—about 5-7 minutes should do.

Create the Sauce: Pour in crushed canned tomatoes along with dried oregano and a pinch of salt. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes to meld flavors beautifully.

Toss Everything Together: Stir cooked rigatoni into the skillet with sauce until well coated—be generous! Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so pasta absorbs some sauce flavor.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate your masterpiece immediately! Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil for an extra flourish.

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta that’s sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every delicious bite as you soak in those lovely aromas wafting from your kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage in a pan, then cook the rigatoni while simmering the sauce. This sequence ensures everything is hot and ready to serve simultaneously.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap Italian sausage for chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Cooking this Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta brings back memories of family gatherings, where laughter echoed with every bite shared around the table.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne or fusilli work great with this sauce too.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it in portions for easy future meals.

What sides pair well with Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.

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Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in this flavorful Italian Sausage Rigatoni Pasta, featuring savory sausage and rich tomato sauce enveloping perfectly cooked rigatoni for a comforting meal that delights.

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until golden brown.
3. Add crumbled Italian sausage to the skillet and brown for 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed canned tomatoes and dried oregano; simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
5. Toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb flavors.
6. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg