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Creamy Sausage Rigatoni: A Decadent Comfort Food Recipe for Weeknight Dinners

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There’s something about a warm, creamy pasta dish that feels like a big hug in a bowl! This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is rich, hearty, and packed with Italian flavors—perfect for a cozy night in. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this dish is pure comfort with every bite. Try it tonight and let your kitchen fill with irresistible aromas!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 15 oz Italian sausage (crumbled, sweet or spicy)
  • 8 oz rigatoni (uncooked)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
  • 15 oz tomato sauce (marinara works too)
  • 5 oz fresh spinach
  • Salt and coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook for 5 minutes, breaking it into smaller pieces as it browns. Drain excess grease.
  2. Combine Ingredients:
    To the same skillet, add the uncooked rigatoni, chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.
  3. Simmer and Cook:
    Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens.
  4. Add Spinach:
    Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Alternatively, remove the skillet from heat, cover, and let the spinach wilt in the residual heat for 4 minutes.
  5. Adjust Consistency:
    If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Season and Serve:
    Remove from heat and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste before adding salt, as the sausage can be salty on its own.

Notes

  • Pasta Choice: Rigatoni works best, but penne or ziti are great substitutes. Avoid long pastas like spaghetti.
  • Customize Heat: Use spicy Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes for a kick, or sweet sausage for a milder flavor.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
  • Cheesier Version: Add grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano before serving.
  • Thicker Sauce: Reduce the chicken broth slightly or simmer uncovered longer.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipes.swedishinarabic.net/creamy-sausage-rigatoni-a-decadent-comfort-food-recipe-for-weeknight-dinners/