Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni
A delightful pasta dish featuring a rich and creamy sauce, hearty Italian sausage, and fresh spinach, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 12 oz Rigatoni Pasta The perfect vessel for the creamy sauce.
- 1 lb Italian Sausage Choose sweet, spicy, or mild.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream For a luscious, creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Adds a nutty flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Brings aromatic depth.
- 2 cups Spinach, fresh Adds vibrant color and nutrition.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil For sautéing.
- Salt and Pepper To taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes, optional For a hint of heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by cooking the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few moments before adding the Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
Notes
Serve the Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish pairs nicely with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or cream.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
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