Zippy Sausage and Spinach Rigatoni Recipe: Rustic Comfort Magic

Pasta nights just got a delicious upgrade with this hearty sausage and spinach rigatoni that promises bold flavors in every bite.

Tender rigatoni noodles provide the perfect canvas for savory Italian sausage and fresh spinach leaves.

The combination creates a robust meal that comes together quickly and satisfies serious hunger.

Garlic and parmesan cheese add depth and richness to this simple yet sophisticated dish.

Aromatic herbs mingle with the meaty sausage, creating a symphony of tastes that dance across your palate.

Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of protein and greens, making this recipe a go-to weeknight dinner solution.

Sausage Spinach Rigatoni Ingredient Prep List

• Rigatoni: A hearty pasta that holds sauce well and provides a satisfying texture to the dish.
• Sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor and protein to the pasta.
• Spinach: Brings a fresh, nutritious green element to the recipe.

• Chicken Broth: Helps cook the pasta and adds depth of flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy and luxurious sauce base.
• Tomato Sauce: Provides a tangy and slightly sweet undertone to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Helps start the cooking process and prevents sticking.
• Garlic, Italian Seasoning: Adds aromatic and herbal notes to enhance the overall taste.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Allows for final seasoning and personalized heat level.

Steps For Sausage Spinach Rigatoni Success

Step 1: Brown Savory Sausage

In a spacious, high-sided skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat.

Crumble the sausage into the pan and cook until it develops a rich, golden-brown color.

Carefully drain any excess grease to keep the dish light and flavorful.

Step 2: Create Creamy Pasta Base

• Uncooked rigatoni
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Minced garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Tomato sauce

Thoroughly mix all ingredients to ensure even coating and distribution.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.

Cover the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until the rigatoni reaches that ideal al dente texture.

This should take approximately 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Wilt Fresh Spinach

Fold in fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to gently wilt and integrate into the creamy pasta.

Cook for 2-4 minutes until the spinach is tender and vibrant green.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat.

Sprinkle with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Transfer to serving dishes while piping hot and enjoy the comforting, hearty meal.

Rigatoni With Spinach – Chef’s Tricks

• Opt for turkey or chicken sausage to reduce fat content while maintaining delicious flavor.
• Stir frequently and check rigatoni at 10-minute mark to prevent overcooking and ensure perfect al dente texture.
• Add extra fresh spinach or mix in other leafy greens like kale for increased nutritional value.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier sauce option.
• Adjust red pepper flakes according to personal heat preference, starting with small amounts and gradually increasing.

Fun Twists On Sausage Spinach Rigatoni

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace sausage with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a meat-free version that maintains rich flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap rigatoni with gluten-free pasta like chickpea or rice pasta to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive diets.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy, lactose-free alternative that keeps the dish's luxurious feel.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute rigatoni with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate meal that still delivers robust taste.

Serve Sausage Rigatoni For Cozy Meals

• Cozy Family Dinner Night: Gather loved ones around the table and serve this hearty pasta dish with warm garlic bread for extra comfort and deliciousness.
• Cheese Lover's Dream: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan or pecorino romano on top to add a rich, salty dimension that complements the creamy sauce and savory sausage.
• Fresh Side Salad Pairing: Create a light mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta and provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the main course.
• Wine Companion Option: Pour a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to enhance the flavors of the sausage and bring out the subtle herbs in the dish.

Store Sausage Spinach Rigatoni Easily

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, add splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.
• Warm pasta in skillet over medium-low heat, adding small amount of broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir gently until heated evenly.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe container, removing excess air. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with penne, ziti, or mostaccioli. Just ensure the pasta shape is similar in size and texture.

• Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor profile.

• How spicy will this dish be?

The red pepper flakes add mild heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them completely for a less spicy version.

• Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Cook the dish and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Sausage Spinach Rigatoni: Why It’s A Classic

• Whip Up a One-Pot Wonder: This sausage and spinach rigatoni eliminates multiple dishes, saving precious cleanup time and making dinner preparation a breeze.
• Customize for Every Palate: Easily adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes or swap proteins to suit family preferences, making it incredibly versatile for different taste buds.
• Create a Hearty Comfort Meal: Packed with rich, creamy sauce, tender pasta, and nutritious spinach, this dish delivers a satisfying and wholesome dinner that feels like a warm hug.
• Quick Weeknight Champion: From start to finish, this recipe comes together quickly, perfect for busy families needing a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Sausage and Spinach Rigatoni Recipe

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4.7 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sausage and spinach rigatoni brings Italian comfort to your dinner table with hearty pasta packed with savory sausage and nutrient-rich greens. Creamy sauce and perfectly al dente rigatoni create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 15 ounces (425 grams) Italian sausage (crumbled)
• 8 ounces (227 grams) rigatoni (uncooked)
• 5 ounces (142 grams) fresh spinach
• 15 ounces (425 grams) tomato sauce

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream

Herbs, Seasonings, and Aromatics:

• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt (to taste)
• Coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a spacious, deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Introduce crumbled sausage and sauté until golden brown and thoroughly separated, approximately 5 minutes. Eliminate excess fat.
3. Combine uncooked rigatoni with chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato sauce in the skillet. Thoroughly integrate all components.
4. Elevate to a rolling boil, then transition to a gentle simmer. Cover and allow pasta to cook until tender, around 10-15 minutes, stirring intermittently to prevent sticking.
5. Gently fold fresh spinach into the skillet, continuing to cook until leaves collapse and wilt completely, roughly 2-4 minutes.
6. Extract skillet from heat source. Season the dish with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added zest.
7. Transfer to serving plates while piping hot, ensuring each portion captures the rich, creamy essence of the sauce and perfectly cooked ingredients.

Notes

• Swap out spicy Italian sausage for mild versions if you prefer less heat or have sensitive taste buds.
• Create a lighter version by using turkey sausage and replacing heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for reduced calories.
• Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach – just drain excess water thoroughly before adding to maintain sauce consistency.
• Gluten-free alternative works perfectly by using gluten-free rigatoni without changing other recipe ingredients.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 590 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 820 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg