There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta that’s rich, creamy, and full of hearty flavor. This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni delivers all of that and more. With juicy chunks of Italian sausage, a velvety cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, it promises to be the ultimate weeknight dinner or casual entertaining dish.

The combination of savory sausage and creamy parmesan-laced sauce clings to the ridges of the pasta, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. It’s quick enough to make after a long day, yet satisfying enough to impress a hungry crowd. Whether you’re pairing it with crusty bread or serving it alongside a crisp salad, this dish hits the comfort-food sweet spot.

What Kind of Sausage Works Best for Rigatoni?

For the best flavor, go with mild or spicy Italian sausage. Pork sausage offers rich, savory depth, but chicken or turkey sausage can be great lighter alternatives. If you’re buying links, be sure to remove the casings before browning.

Ingredients for the Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Rigatoni Pasta: The ridged shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
Italian Sausage: Adds a savory, slightly spicy kick that infuses the sauce.
Garlic: A must for aromatic depth.
Heavy Cream: Brings luscious, velvety texture to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty richness that balances the cream.
Chicken Broth: Lightens the sauce slightly and adds flavor.
Olive Oil: Used for browning the sausage and softening garlic.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a pop of freshness.
Salt and Pepper: To season the final dish to perfection.

How To Make the Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage (casings removed) and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Broth

Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up the flavorful bits.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and additional parmesan if desired. Serve hot!

How to Serve and Store Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Serve this dish immediately while the sauce is hot and silky. It pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine and a side of garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Sausage Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

The ultimate companion for soaking up that luscious sauce.

Caesar Salad

Its crisp greens and tangy dressing cut through the richness.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a toasty, healthy side to round out the meal.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil offer a light, tangy bite.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A bold, slightly sweet veggie side that complements the sausage.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Great as an appetizer to start the meal off right.

Red Wine

A bold Chianti or Zinfandel pairs beautifully with the sausage and cream.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this rich and cozy rigatoni, you’ll probably want to check out more pasta creations:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a meaty, cheesy classic.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta with weeknight simplicity.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta that’s smoky, hearty, and minimal cleanup.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with rich, satisfying flavor.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that’s love at first bite.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use spicy or mild sausage? Add mushrooms or spinach? I love seeing how others make these recipes their own. Feel free to ask any questions too—let’s cook better, together!

Explore more health-boosting and comfort-packed meals at ChefAlchemy’s Recipes and find your next favorite dinner idea.

Creamy Sausage Rigatoni

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a comforting, flavorful dinner that feels indulgent but is simple to make? This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is your answer. It features juicy Italian sausage, a rich parmesan cream sauce, and tender rigatoni that soaks up every bit of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties, this easy pasta recipe comes together fast and delivers restaurant-level satisfaction. Whether you’re craving a cozy comfort meal or looking for new dinner ideas, this creamy sausage pasta hits the mark with bold flavors and minimal effort. It’s one of those reliable food ideas you’ll keep coming back to—ideal for an easy dinner, quick comfort food craving, or even next-day lunch.

Ingredients

12 oz rigatoni pasta

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease.

3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.

5. Lower heat to medium-low. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.

7. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.

8. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve hot.