Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Recipe

Name: Spicy Sausage Rigatoni Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 300 g 10.5 oz dried rigatoni; 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small yellow onion (peeled and finely diced); 1 red bell pepper (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 fresh red or green chili (finely chopped); 400 g 14 oz high-quality pork sausages, casings removed; 2 Tbsp tomato paste; 400 g 14 oz can of chopped tomatoes; ½ tsp crushed chili flakes; ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper; ¼ tsp salt (optional (adjust depending on sausage seasoning)); 1 tsp dried oregano; 60 ml ¼ cup double cream (heavy cream); 1 small carrot (finely grated); 1 tsp balsamic vinegar; Small handful fresh basil leaves (sliced into thin strips); Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

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I remember the first time I had spicy sausage rigatoni. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma wafting through the kitchen was nothing short of intoxicating. My friend had invited me over for dinner, and as I sat at their table, the vibrant colors of the pasta and sauce danced in front of me. I knew right then and there that I had to recreate this dish.

Today, I’m excited to share my take on this wonderful recipe. We’ll dive deep into what makes spicy sausage rigatoni so special, from its heartwarming flavors to its straightforward preparation. Buckle up, pasta lovers!

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What is Spicy Sausage Rigatoni?

Spicy sausage rigatoni is a delightful Italian dish that combines the satisfying texture of rigatoni pasta with a rich, flavorful sauce made from spicy sausage, tomatoes, and a touch of cream. This isn’t your average pasta recipe; it offers a unique medley of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. The spice from the sausage is balanced beautifully by the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the cream.

The dish originated from Italy, where pasta reigns supreme. Rigatoni, with its ridges, holds the sauce like a true champion. This meal is not just food; it’s an experience—a comforting hug in a bowl that brings people together, making every gathering a little brighter.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Sausage Rigatoni

Here’s the deal: this pasta dish is all about flavor and comfort. The spicy kick from the sausage combined with the creaminess of the sauce creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a weeknight treat. It’s versatile too! You can dress it up with gourmet toppings or keep it simple, and it’ll still shine.

Comfort Food at Its Best

Imagine curling up on the couch with a steaming bowl of this rigatoni after a long day. It’s pure bliss. Plus, it’s relatively quick to prepare, which makes it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Nutritious Twist

While it delivers on taste, it’s also quite balanced. With the addition of fresh vegetables, you’re not just filling your plate but also nourishing your body.

The Ingredients

To whip up this dish, you’ll need a handful of quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll require:

300g (10.5 oz) dried rigatoni
2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, peeled and finely diced
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 fresh red or green chili, finely chopped
400g (14 oz) high-quality pork sausages, casings removed
2 Tbsp tomato paste
400g (14 oz) can of chopped tomatoes
½ tsp crushed chili flakes
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
¼ tsp salt, optional (adjust depending on sausage seasoning)
1 tsp dried oregano
60 ml (¼ cup) double cream (heavy cream)
1 small carrot, finely grated
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
Small handful fresh basil leaves, sliced into thin strips
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

how to make spicy sausage rigatoni Recipe

Step by Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into each step of creating this delicious dish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First off, you’ll want to bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add the rigatoni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta, but don’t rinse it! The starch helps the sauce adhere better.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Once the onion turns translucent, add the red bell pepper, garlic, and chopped chili. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Now, it’s time for the star of the show—the sausage! Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The glorious aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 4: Introduce the Tomato Paste

Once your sausage is beautifully browned, stir in the tomato paste. This will deepen the flavor of your sauce. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to enhance its richness.

Step 5: Add the Tomatoes

Next, pour in the can of chopped tomatoes along with the crushed chili flakes, black pepper, and salt. Give it a good stir, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will thicken the sauce and meld all those fantastic flavors together.

Step 6: Mix in the Cream

After your sauce has thickened nicely, stir in the double cream, grated carrot, and balsamic vinegar. The cream adds a luscious texture, while the carrot brings a hint of sweetness. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Combine the Pasta

Now, add the drained rigatoni into the sauce mixture. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated. Remove it from heat and stir in the fresh basil.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

To serve, dish out the spicy sausage rigatoni onto plates and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Perhaps add a few basil leaves for garnish, just to make it look extra special. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Here are some key tips to ensure your spicy sausage rigatoni turns out perfectly every time:

Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor. Fresh herbs also make a big difference.
Don’t Rush the Browning: Take time to brown the sausage well. The caramelized bits add a lot of depth to the dish.
Adjust the Spice: Want it spicier? Add more chili flakes or use a spicier sausage.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning based on your palate. Every ingredient plays a role!
Garnish Creatively: Don’t skimp on the cheese and herbs when serving. They elevate the dish beautifully.

Nutrition Information

A serving of spicy sausage rigatoni roughly contains:

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The numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you use but this gives you a solid idea of its nutritional value.

Can I Store Spicy Sausage Rigatoni?

Absolutely! If you find yourself with leftovers (a rarity, I’d say!), let the dish cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating on the stove over medium heat works best; just add a splash of water or cream to loosen it up.

What Can I Serve with Spicy Sausage Rigatoni?

To make your meal even more delightful, consider pairing it with:

Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery goodness that’s ideal for mopping up sauce.
Arugula Salad: A fresh salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a nice crispness.
Roasted Veggies: Think seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted to perfection.
Wine: A nice red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the spicy flavors.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: Because who can resist more carbs, especially when they’re cheesy?

Variations

Not in the mood for the classic spicy sausage rigatoni? Here are several variations you might want to try:

Italian Sausage and Broccoli Rabe: Toss in some sautéed broccoli rabe for a more robust flavor. The bitterness of the greens complements the richness beautifully.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative or use mushrooms and lentils for a meaty texture. You can still achieve that depth with the right seasonings.
Spicy Shrimp Rigatoni: Replace the sausage with shrimp. Sauté them quickly and add them to the sauce for a delightful twist.
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta: Incorporate fresh spinach and dollops of ricotta before serving. The spinach wilts into the sauce, adding color and nutrients.
Smoky BBQ Sausage: Opt for smoked sausage to add a barbecue flair. A bit of smoky taste will transform the entire dish!

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Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 30

Servings:

Calories: 465kcal

Equipment

large skillet
Whisk

Ingredients

300 g 10.5 oz dried rigatoni
2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion peeled and finely diced
1 red bell pepper finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 fresh red or green chili finely chopped
400 g 14 oz high-quality pork sausages, casings removed
2 Tbsp tomato paste
400 g 14 oz can of chopped tomatoes
½ tsp crushed chili flakes
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
¼ tsp salt optional (adjust depending on sausage seasoning)
1 tsp dried oregano
60 ml ¼ cup double cream (heavy cream)
1 small carrot finely grated
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
Small handful fresh basil leaves sliced into thin strips
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving