Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni – Easy Recipes for Dinner
This creamy Italian sausage rigatoni is a hearty, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in no time. With the richness of sausage, tang of tomatoes, and smooth cheesy sauce coating every bite of pasta, it's the kind of comforting meal your whole family will love. Perfect for those evenings when you need something both easy and satisfying, this dish fits right into your rotation of easy recipes for dinner. It’s also a great fit for anyone who’s into quick and easy recipes, cheesy flavors, or one-pot pasta dinners. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Whether you're after something simple after work, a pasta lover, or just craving that warm, cozy feeling a dish like this delivers — you’ve found your go-to!
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper. Let it simmer for 8–10 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is creamy and combined.
- Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss until well coated in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.