If you are craving a comforting yet elegant pasta dish that’s packed with flavor and colors, you are going to love this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of hearty Italian sausage, tender rigatoni, vibrant spinach, and juicy tomatoes all embraced in a luscious, velvety cream sauce. Every bite is a perfect balance of savory richness and fresh brightness that makes it an irresistible weeknight dinner or a special occasion treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients that each play an essential role. From the rich sausage giving it depth, to the fresh spinach adding a pop of green and nutrients, everything combines to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: The large ridged tubes hold the creamy sauce wonderfully for a satisfying bite.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy): Adds meaty, savory richness with a hint of herbs and spices.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to cook sausage and sauté aromatics, adding fruity undertones.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a warm, aromatic punch that elevates the sauce.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened in the skillet.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Provide bursts of juicy tanginess and vibrant color.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy, velvety texture of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances richness and helps loosen the sauce to coat the pasta.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties all flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for brightening and seasoning every component.
- 5 oz fresh spinach: Adds freshness, vibrant color, and a subtle earthiness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Contributes a nutty, salty finish that melts into the sauce perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional garnish): Lends a fresh herbal aroma and pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the rigatoni and cook it until just tender or al dente according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This perfectly cooked rigatoni will hold the sauce beautifully without getting mushy.
Step 2: Brown the Italian Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into small pieces with your spoon as it cooks. Cook until it’s fully browned and cooked through—this step builds a deep, savory base flavor. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and leave the rendered fat in the skillet for the next ingredients.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Onion
In the same skillet with the sausage drippings, add minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté gently until the onion turns translucent and becomes fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step releases those wonderful aromatics that layer extra flavor into the sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Cherry Tomatoes
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for about three minutes until they soften and start to release their vibrant juices. These sweet, slightly tangy tomatoes add a beautiful freshness and color contrast to the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add Cream, Broth, and Seasoning
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper according to your taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes to thicken and let the flavors meld into that perfect creamy tomato base.
Step 6: Wilt the Fresh Spinach
Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach. Stir it into the sauce and cook until it wilts down and incorporates beautifully. This addition brightens the dish both visually and flavor-wise with its fresh, green notes.
Step 7: Return the Cooked Sausage to the Skillet
Bring the cooked sausage back into the skillet, distributing it evenly through the creamy sauce mixture. This ensures every mouthful has that satisfying meaty goodness.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained rigatoni pasta right into the skillet and gently toss everything together so each tube of pasta is generously coated with the luscious sauce. This melding guarantees the best texture and flavor in every bite.
Step 9: Stir in Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until the cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce. This step enriches the sauce even more, adding a slightly salty and nutty dimension that completes the dish perfectly.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
If you like, finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil for a fresh herbal scent and a lovely pop of color. Your Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe is now ready to delight your taste buds!
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To make your dish extra special, fresh basil or extra grated Parmesan on top adds both vibrant color and an aromatic lift. A sprinkling of red pepper flakes can also bring a touch of heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This creamy rigatoni pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. A side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that indulgent sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style in a beautiful large skillet or pasta bowl allowing everyone to help themselves. For a more formal feel, plate individual portions garnished with basil leaves and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a luxurious touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this delightful meal again.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta, but keep in mind the texture of the sauce and pasta may change slightly. If freezing, place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help loosen the sauce and keep it creamy while warming through perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage can be a lighter alternative and still provide that savory flavor. Just adjust the seasoning slightly if needed to keep the bold taste.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of flour to thicken, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and velvety as with heavy cream. Coconut cream also works for a dairy-free twist.
What can I do to make this dish spicier?
Use spicy Italian sausage or add some red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce to give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the creamy elements.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just watch for cook time differences to ensure your pasta is perfectly tender.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to toss in sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the tomatoes to boost the veggie content and add extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Tomato Cream Sauce Recipe has quickly become one of my treasured go-to meals whenever I want something comforting, flavorful, and just a little bit special. It’s easy enough for busy nights but impressive enough for guests. I hope you give it a try and find it as irresistibly delicious as I do!
