Creamy Beef Sausage Rigatoni: Easy Weeknight Dinner (Print Version)
Creamy beef sausage rigatoni is a simple, satisfying dinner. This easy pasta dish features savory beef sausage in a rich, creamy tomato sauce.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb ground beef sausage (mild or hot)
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ The Creamy Embrace
05 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
06 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
07 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
08 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
→ Pasta & Freshness
09 -
12 oz rigatoni pasta
10 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
→ Flavor Amplifiers
11 -
1 tsp dried oregano
12 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
13 -
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
14 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 12 oz rigatoni pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup pasta water. This ensures your Creamy Beef Sausage Rigatoni - Easy Dinner has perfectly cooked pasta.
02 -
While pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground beef sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat, then transfer sausage to a plate.
03 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced, to the same skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 -
Pour in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for your Creamy Beef Sausage Rigatoni - Easy Dinner.
05 -
Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and well combined. Return the cooked beef sausage to the skillet. Continue to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce is heated through and creamy.
06 -
Add the drained rigatoni pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve your delicious Creamy Beef Sausage Rigatoni - Easy Dinner immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For a lighter dish, you can use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of beef sausage. Adjust cooking time as needed.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
03 -
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. For more heat, add a full teaspoon; for less, omit entirely.
04 -
This rigatoni pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad and some crusty garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Colander
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 914 kcal
Total Fat: 51 g
Total Carbohydrate: 74 g
Protein: 40 g