Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. For a vegetarian twist, swap the sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for that umami flavor.
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to bring this delicious dish to life:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy the warmth and flavors with your loved ones!
Remember, the key is to let the sauce thicken just enough to coat the pasta beautifully without being too heavy. It’s all about balance, just like life!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International