Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach, Garlic, and Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe

Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach, Garlic and Tomato Sauce

by

When it comes to comfort food, creamy pasta dishes always top the list! If you love indulgent meals that come together in a breeze, then creamy sausage rigatoni is where it’s at. Packed with flavors from savory sausage, fresh spinach, aromatic garlic, and a dreamy tomato cream sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients, this dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes.
  • Rich Flavors: The combination of creamy sauce with sausage and spinach provides a comforting yet gourmet taste.
  • Healthy Spinach: You’re sneaking in some greens, making this dish a little more nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need For Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

To whip up this delightful creamy sausage rigatoni, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
  • Water
  • Salt

For the Sauce

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (or more, to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions For Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Cook the Rigatoni

  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Sausage and Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, heat over medium heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon.
  3. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Create the Creamy Tomato Sauce

  1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the sausage.
  2. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  3. Next, lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream until well blended.
  4. Add in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Add Spinach

  1. Gently fold in the fresh spinach and let it wilt in the sauce for a couple of minutes.
  2. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Mix Everything Together

  1. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce.
  2. If needed, adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper.
See also  Coconut Prawns Recipe

Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the creamy sausage rigatoni hot, generously topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

  1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Always aim for al dente; it’ll finish cooking when combined with the sauce.
  2. Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is gold! It can help adjust the sauce’s thickness.
  3. Experiment with Cheeses: Try using different cheeses like mozzarella or even a hint of feta for texture and flavor.

Variations of Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Feel free to customize this creamy sausage rigatoni to your liking. Here are some delicious variations you might enjoy:

1. Substitute the Protein

  • Chicken: Swap out the sausage for diced chicken breast or thighs for a leaner option.
  • Vegetarian: Use a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.

2. Add More Veggies

  • Bell Peppers: Sauté sliced bell peppers along with the sausage for added sweetness and crunch.
  • Zucchini: Toss in some diced zucchini for filler and additional nutrition.

3. Spice It Up

  • Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage or directly into the sauce.
  • Spicy Italian Sausage: Use spicy sausage for an added kick.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a rare occasion), here’s how to store and reheat your creamy sausage rigatoni:

Storage

  1. In the Refrigerator: Place leftover rigatoni in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  2. In the Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just know that the cream sauce may change texture upon freezing.

Reheating

  • In the Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • On the Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or cream to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Conclusion

Creamy sausage rigatoni with spinach, garlic, and tomato cream sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience! From the rich, comforting flavors to the quick preparation, it’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you serve it on a casual weeknight or during a dinner party, this recipe is bound to impress.