A rich and creamy rigatoni dish tossed with savory browned sausage, parmesan cheese, and garlic-infused cream sauce. An easy and satisfying weeknight dinner.
1 lb rigatoni pasta
1 lb Italian or country sausage, crumbled
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup reserved pasta water
½ cup grated parmesan
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
Brown sausage in a skillet. Set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and red pepper flakes.
Stir in cream, pasta water, and parmesan. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Add sausage and pasta. Toss until coated and heated through.
Season to taste. Garnish with parsley and extra cheese.
Add spinach or mushrooms for extra depth.
Use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Store leftovers for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of cream or water.