One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of sausage with the creamy goodness of a luscious sauce, all enveloped in perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, as it requires minimal cleanup. The creamy sauce clings to each piece of pasta, ensuring that every bite is infused with a delightful combination of flavors. With just a handful of ingredients and one pot, you can whip up a satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to adjust flavors and ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni. First and foremost, the taste is unparalleled. The savory sausage melds beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a rich and comforting dish that is hard to resist. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a meal that everyone will enjoy. Secondly, the preparation is incredibly easy. With everything cooked in just one pot, you can save time on both cooking and cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The simplicity of the cooking process means that even novice cooks can achieve impressive results without the need for complicated techniques. Finally, the appearance of the dish is equally appealing. The rigatoni pasta, coated in a creamy sauce and adorned with bits of sausage, is not only mouthwatering but also visually inviting. This dish makes for an impressive centerpiece on your dinner table, ensuring that your meal is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients:

To create your One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound Italian sausage: Choose your favorite variety, whether mild or spicy, to infuse the dish with flavor. Remove the casing and crumble the sausage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
12 ounces rigatoni pasta: This tube-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you prefer, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, but rigatoni offers the ideal texture.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the sausage, olive oil adds a subtle richness and helps prevent sticking. It also enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Onions add sweetness and depth to the dish. Their aromatic qualities will elevate the overall taste and create a savory base for the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides a wonderful aroma and flavor that complements the sausage. Use fresh garlic for the best results.

1 cup chicken broth: This will serve as the base for your sauce, providing moisture and flavor without overwhelming the dish. Choose low-sodium broth for more control over saltiness.
1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream creates a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. It adds a luxurious texture that elevates the dish.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce. It also helps thicken the sauce as it melts.

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor to the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, be sure to adjust these to your preference. Tasting as you go ensures a balanced flavor profile.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, making it visually appealing while also adding a hint of herbal flavor.

How To Make One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni?

Follow these detailed steps to create your One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni:

Prepare your ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

Cook the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving any drippings in the pot.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Add the pasta and broth: Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and add the rigatoni pasta. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Cook the pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Create the creamy sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of additional chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Season to taste: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This step is crucial for ensuring the flavors are balanced.

Serve: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a lovely touch of color and freshness.

Tips For Variations:

One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a versatile dish that allows for a variety of modifications based on personal taste and dietary preferences. Here are some unique ideas to tailor this recipe to your liking:

Change the protein: While Italian sausage is the star of this dish, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, use a plant-based sausage to create a vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.

Add vegetables: Incorporating vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be sautéed with the onions and garlic for added texture and taste. Broccoli or zucchini can also be added during the pasta cooking stage for a pop of color and crunch.
Experiment with cheeses: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to mix in other varieties like mozzarella or fontina for an extra cheesy experience. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt differently, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
Spice it up: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish. This can elevate the flavor profile and add an exciting kick.

Change the herbs: While Italian seasoning works beautifully, you can experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a bright and fresh flavor. Fresh herbs add a wonderful aroma and enhance the dish’s overall taste.
Make it budget-friendly: To cut costs, consider using store-brand ingredients or purchasing in bulk. Canned tomatoes can be a great addition if you’re looking for a different flavor profile, and they can also help stretch the recipe further.
Try different pasta shapes: While rigatoni is a great choice, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand. Shells, cavatappi, or even spaghetti can work well in this creamy sauce. Just be mindful of cooking times, as different shapes may require adjustments.

Serving Suggestions:

Serving One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni can be as creative and elegant as you desire. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a beautiful touch to your dish and enhances the flavor. Consider using a mix of herbs for a more vibrant presentation.

Pair with sides: Serve the rigatoni with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. This provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta and balances the meal. Garlic bread or a warm baguette can also be excellent accompaniments to soak up the delicious sauce.
Offer cheese on the side: Present a small bowl of additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests who may want extra cheesy goodness. This simple addition can elevate the experience and cater to cheese lovers.
Serve in individual bowls: For a more sophisticated presentation, portion the rigatoni into individual bowls. This adds an elegant touch and makes it easier for guests to serve themselves.

Wine pairing: For those who enjoy wine, consider pairing your meal with a chilled glass of white wine or a light red. This can enhance the flavors of the dish and provide a complete dining experience.
Make it a buffet: If serving to a larger group, consider setting up a buffet-style meal. Place the One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni in a large serving dish, accompanied by various sides like roasted vegetables, salads, and bread. This allows guests to customize their plates according to their preferences.

FAQ:

Can I make One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is possible, but the texture of the cream sauce may change upon thawing. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream. However, the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Adjust the quantities to achieve your desired consistency.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different shapes may require adjustments.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on the type of sausage you choose. Mild Italian sausage is not spicy, while spicy sausage will add heat. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

A comforting and flavorful dish that combines sausage with a creamy sauce and rigatoni pasta, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

Large Pot or Dutch Oven
Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

1 pound Italian sausage Remove casing and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
12 ounces rigatoni pasta Can substitute with penne or fusilli.
1 tablespoon olive oil Used to sauté the sausage.

1 medium onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
3 cloves garlic, minced Provides aroma and flavor.
1 cup chicken broth Choose low-sodium for better control over saltiness.

1 cup heavy cream Creates a rich and velvety sauce.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for best flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of dried herbs.

to taste salt and pepper Essential for seasoning.
for garnish fresh parsley, chopped Adds color and freshness.

Instructions

Gather all your ingredients and measure them out for smoother cooking.

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add crumbled sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot.
Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and add rigatoni pasta. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. Adjust consistency with additional broth if needed.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.