Description
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Tomato Delight, a delightful one-pot pasta dish. Perfect for any weekday or weekend meal, this recipe combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the freshness of spinach, smothered in a luxurious tomato cream sauce. It’s quick to prepare, delicious, and sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain some off, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
- Sauté Garlic and Onion: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pot with the sausage. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the rigatoni directly to the pot. Stir to combine, then cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Incorporate Cream: Reduce the heat to low, and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Spinach and Cheese: Stir in the fresh spinach, cooking until wilted, about 2 minutes. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the pasta is fully coated.