This Creamy Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is a rich, indulgent dish perfect for any pasta lover. The creamy garlic Alfredo sauce combines beautifully with savory Italian sausage, making it a flavorful and comforting meal. The rigatoni pasta, with its ridges, is perfect for catching all that cheesy, creamy goodness. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for a family gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (bulk, not in casings)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later. Set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
- Remove any excess grease from the pan if necessary.
3. Prepare the Garlic Alfredo Sauce:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the butter and stir until melted.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has fully melted into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using), adjusting to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet with the sausage and sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve:
- Serve the Creamy Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Sausage Variety: For a different flavor, try using spicy sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner alternative.
- Add Veggies: You can mix in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Options: You can substitute or add mozzarella or provolone cheese to the sauce for a gooey, melty texture.
This Creamy Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is a deliciously comforting dish that will satisfy your pasta cravings. With a creamy garlic sauce and hearty sausage, it’s a meal everyone will love!