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Italian cuisine is renowned for its ability to evoke warmth and comfort through its rich flavors and hearty dishes. From the bustling streets of Rome to the sun-kissed coasts of Sicily, Italian meals have a unique way of bringing people together, often around a table filled with laughter and love. Among the myriad of delights that Italian cooking offers, Savory Italian Sausage Rigatoni stands out as a quintessential dish—perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Savory Italian Sausage Rigatoni

Discover the warmth of Italian cuisine with Savory Italian Sausage Rigatoni, a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe blends hearty rigatoni pasta with delicious Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tomato sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to make. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, it's sure to bring family and friends together around the table. Experience the joy of cooking and sharing this delightful Italian classic!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz rigatoni pasta

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

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjustable based on spice preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Rigatoni: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, and set the pasta aside.

    Brown the Sausage: In a large, deep skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, using a spatula to break it into small pieces. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes until the sausage is browned and cooked through. If there’s excess grease, drain it carefully.

      Sauté the Vegetables: Introduce the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the bell pepper is tender. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma.

        Add Tomatoes and Cream: Pour the crushed tomatoes into the mixture, followed by the heavy cream. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season the mixture with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss gently to thoroughly coat the pasta with the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually incorporate some reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

            Cheesy Finish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, resulting in a rich, creamy texture. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed—this is your opportunity to make it perfect!

              Serve and Garnish: Plate the Savory Italian Sausage Rigatoni in bowls or on plates. Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added touch of elegance. Serve hot and indulge in the delicious flavors!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 35 min | Serves 4