Make dinnertime easy and delicious with this One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni! With bold Italian flavors, a rich tomato cream sauce, and hearty rigatoni pasta, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Why You’ll Love It
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and full of savory sausage.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 15 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy, crumbled)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz rigatoni (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups tomato pasta sauce (marinara, basil, or arrabbiata)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
- Parmesan and fresh herbs for topping
How to Make It
- Cook the sausage
In a large, deep skillet, heat olive oil and cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. - Add aromatics
Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Add pasta and liquids
Stir in uncooked rigatoni, chicken broth, cream, and tomato sauce. Mix well. - Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender. - Add spinach
Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. - Finish and serve
Season to taste. Garnish with Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil or parsley.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Try smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage.
- Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes.
- Pasta: Penne, farfalle, or fusilli work great too!
Tips for Success
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent sticking.
- Want more flavor? Add a splash of dry red wine to the sauce.
- Like it spicy? Use spicy sausage or add more red pepper flakes.
- Cooking for dietary needs? Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream. Stir well to restore creaminess.
- Freezing not recommended due to the creamy sauce.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Italian Loaf: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Fresh Green Salad: Try spinach or arugula with a light vinaigrette.
More Sausage Favorites
- Creamy Sausage Tortellini
- Italian Sausage Gnocchi
- Sausage and Peppers Mac & Cheese
- Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage
This creamy sausage rigatoni is sure to become a new favorite. It’s hearty, comforting, and so simple to make—all in one pan. Give it a try and let the flavors of Italy take over your kitchen!