Description
Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni blends robust sausage, silky pasta, and fresh spinach in a luxurious sauce that whispers comfort. Rich flavors from aromatic herbs and tender tomatoes invite diners to savor each hearty, satisfying forkful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 12 oz (340 grams) rigatoni pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can (14.5 oz or 411 grams) diced tomatoes, undrained
Flavor Enhancers:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium temperature, carefully place Italian sausage into the pan, and methodically crumble the meat while cooking until rich golden brown and completely done, approximately 7-10 minutes.
- Carefully drain excess fat, leaving roughly in the cooking vessel, then introduce finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until aromatic and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour diced tomatoes with their natural juices and chicken broth into the mixture, gently stirring to combine and creating a harmonious liquid base.
- Directly add rigatoni pasta into the simmering liquid, thoroughly mixing to ensure even distribution, then cover and allow to cook for 10-12 minutes, periodically stirring to prevent sticking and achieve perfect al dente texture.
- Reduce cooking temperature to low, gradually incorporate heavy cream, stirring consistently to create a smooth, velvety sauce that gently thickens over 3-5 minutes.
- Introduce fresh spinach leaves, folding them into the creamy mixture until they delicately wilt and integrate, approximately 2 minutes.
- Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, stirring until cheese melts completely and coats the pasta uniformly.
Notes
- Meal Prep Magic: Chop garlic, onions, and measure ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process and reduce kitchen stress.
- Sausage Selection: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for richer flavor, preferably with a mix of mild and spicy varieties to add depth to the dish.
- Liquid Absorption Trick: Adding pasta directly to the sauce allows it to soak up more flavor and creates a creamy, cohesive texture without extra dishes.
- Cheese Melting Technique: Add Parmesan gradually and off direct heat to prevent separation and ensure smooth, silky sauce consistency.
- Spinach Fresh Factor: Add spinach at the last moment to maintain its bright green color and prevent overcooking, preserving nutrients and texture.
- Spice Customization: Adjust red pepper flakes to personal heat preference, allowing each person to control the dish’s spiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 880 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg