Rich, comforting, and full of bold flavor, this one-pot creamy sausage rigatoni is the ultimate easy dinner featuring hearty rigatoni. Savory sausage, tender pasta, and a velvety cream sauce come together in one pan for a dish that’s both indulgent and convenient.
Perfect for busy nights, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Wonder: Easy cooking and cleanup.
Creamy & Flavorful: Rich, satisfying sauce.
Quick to Make: Ready in about 30 minutes.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing meal.
What You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup crushed tomatoes
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat olive oil and cook sausage until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and crushed tomatoes. Add rigatoni and stir well.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm, optionally topped with extra Parmesan.
Expert Tips for Success
Stir Occasionally: Prevents sticking.
Use Good Sausage: Boosts overall flavor.
Adjust Thickness: Add broth if sauce becomes too thick.
Variations and Substitutions
Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage.
Veggie Boost: Add spinach or mushrooms.
Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs perfectly with:
Garlic bread
Fresh salad
Roasted vegetables
A glass of red wine 🍷
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well with a splash of broth or cream.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is possible, but the cream sauce may slightly change texture.
