Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is one of those comforting, satisfying meals I can count on to please everyone at the table. Rigatoni pasta is tossed in a luscious cream sauce filled with savory Italian sausage, garlic, and herbs—creating a rich, hearty dinner that feels like something from my favorite Italian restaurant. It’s bold, creamy, and comes together easily, making it perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines simple ingredients into something that tastes like I spent hours in the kitchen. The sausage adds a depth of flavor that perfectly balances with the creamy sauce, while rigatoni holds all that saucy goodness in every bite. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s satisfying, comforting, and just a little indulgent. And it’s versatile enough to make my own with whatever I have in the fridge.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by cooking the rigatoni in a large pot of salted water until al dente. I reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

2. In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, I heat the olive oil over medium heat. I add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked.

3. I add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes, then stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if I’m using them. I cook until the onion is soft and everything is fragrant.

4. I pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan.

5. I reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for another 3–4 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.

6. I add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, I add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

7. I return the cooked rigatoni to the pan and toss to coat it fully in the sauce. I season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. I serve it hot, topped with fresh parsley or basil.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I swap the rigatoni for penne or fusilli—whatever I have on hand works great. I’ve also used half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. When I want to add veggies, I stir in baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes just before serving. For extra heat, I use spicy sausage and a bit more red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. The flavors get even better after a day in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage?

Yes, I’ve used both with great results. I just add extra Italian seasoning to boost the flavor if I’m skipping the sausage.

Will this work with plant-based sausage?

Absolutely. I’ve made it with vegan sausage and it still turns out creamy and flavorful. I just check the label to make sure it browns well in the pan.

How can I make it spicier?

I use hot Italian sausage and add a full teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the sauce ahead and store it separately. I reheat it gently, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What’s the best way to keep the sauce from getting too thick?

Adding reserved pasta water a little at a time helps thin it out while keeping it creamy. I stir it in until the sauce reaches the perfect consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food—it’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m making it for guests or just need a cozy dinner after a long day, it always hits the spot. With simple ingredients and a quick cook time, this is one of those recipes I keep on repeat all year long.