Description
This Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is an ultimate recipe perfect for any occasion. It features hearty Italian sausage, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s easy to make and delivers a burst of Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet with olive oil, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the cheesy sausage sauce.
- Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with more mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh herbs and spices.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or fontina.
- Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- This dish is best served immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop (with optional baking)
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: N/A