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Sausage Rigatoni Pasta

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A comforting and hearty sausage rigatoni pasta made with savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce that comes together quickly for a satisfying homemade meal.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Add the cooked sausage back to the sauce, then add the rigatoni and toss until well coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
  7. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Adjust red pepper flakes to control spice level.
  • Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/sausage-rigatoni-pasta/