There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of Rigatoni and Sausage to bring comfort to the table.
It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with Italian flavors — perfectly cooked rigatoni tossed in a hearty tomato cream sauce with savory sausage, herbs, and Parmesan cheese.
This dish feels indulgent yet approachable, ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings when you want something satisfying and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The sauce is a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy from the tomatoes and herbs.
Italian sausage gives the dish bold, savory depth that pairs beautifully with rigatoni.
The creamy tomato base clings perfectly to every bite of pasta.
It’s easy to make in under an hour and great for meal prep or family dinners.
You only need a few basic ingredients to create restaurant-level flavor.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Italian sausage adds richness and spice — you can choose mild or hot depending on your taste.
Rigatoni is ideal for holding the creamy sauce in every groove.
Canned tomatoes (crushed or whole) form the base of the sauce, giving it body and tang.
Heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and velvety.
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty finish and helps thicken the sauce.
Fresh basil and oregano bring authentic Italian aroma and brightness.
A touch of red chili flakes adds gentle heat that balances the creaminess.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cook the sausage until golden brown for maximum flavor.
Salt the pasta water generously — it should taste like the sea.
Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce or blend whole tomatoes for texture.
Simmer the sauce slowly to let the flavors meld perfectly.
Toss the pasta directly into the sauce — it absorbs more flavor this way.
How to Make Rigatoni and Sausage
Step 1 – Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook for 7–8 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Cook another 7–8 minutes until browned.
Step 2 – Cook the Pasta
In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil.
Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9–11 minutes.
Drain and set aside.
Step 3 – Prepare the Sauce
Add canned tomatoes to the sausage mixture.
If using whole tomatoes, blend them until smooth before adding.
Stir in basil, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 4 – Make It Creamy
Add heavy cream and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Stir until the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
Let it simmer on medium-low for another 5–7 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5 – Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the pot and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, simmer for 10 more minutes.
Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Enjoy immediately while it’s warm and creamy.
What to Serve It With
A crisp green salad with Italian vinaigrette balances the richness.
Serve with garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the sauce.
Pair with a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Merlot.
Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus make excellent sides.
Variations / Substitutions
Use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
Swap rigatoni for penne, ziti, or fusilli.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Make it cheesy by adding mozzarella or provolone before serving.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the pasta tender.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
FAQs
Can I use chicken sausage instead of pork?
Yes, chicken or turkey sausage works great for a lighter option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce ahead and cook pasta just before serving.
Can I use jarred marinara sauce?
You can, but homemade sauce gives a richer and fresher flavor.
How spicy is it?
That depends on your sausage and chili flakes — you can easily adjust the heat level.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the sausage and use sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture.
What kind of Parmesan works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds superior flavor.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Toss it directly into the sauce instead of letting it sit after draining.
Can I bake this dish?
Yes, top with cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes for a baked rigatoni version.
What wine pairs well with it?
Medium-bodied reds like Chianti, Sangiovese, or Cabernet Sauvignon complement it beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Rigatoni and Sausage recipe captures everything we love about Italian comfort food — rich sauce, creamy texture, and that satisfying bite of perfectly cooked pasta.
It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Once you make it, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
