If you are looking for a pasta dish that is both comforting and bursting with bold flavors, the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe is your perfect answer. Imagine tender rigatoni pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy garlic Alfredo sauce, mingling beautifully with savory slices of garlic sausage. Finished with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of vibrant parsley, this dish is an easy, satisfying weeknight dinner that never fails to impress. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe brings a delicious combination of richness and garlic-packed goodness to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe comes together with simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in elevating the dish. From the al dente rigatoni adding substance to the rich cream that creates the sauce’s signature silkiness, every component is thoughtfully chosen to deliver a balanced and delectable meal.
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: Opt for rigatoni because its ridged surface holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps brown the sausage evenly.
- 1 lb garlic sausage (sliced or crumbled): The star protein packed with bold garlic and seasoning flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Boosts the garlic flavor, essential for that signature aroma and depth.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Contributes to the velvety texture of the sauce.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: Creates the creamy Alfredo base that makes this dish so indulgent.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, sharp finish that perfectly balances the cream.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle kick of spice.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color to brighten up the plate.
How to Make Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente—this means the pasta should be firm but tender to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak in all the creamy goodness later.
Step 2: Brown the Garlic Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic sausage, whether sliced or crumbled, and cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This browning step is key to unlocking those deep flavors. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for now.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and then sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden—don’t let it burn. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook on low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Then, whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and velvety. Finally, season with salt, black pepper, and if you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and add the drained rigatoni. Toss everything together so the rigatoni is evenly coated in that luscious Alfredo sauce, and the sausage is distributed through every bite. Let it cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm through and marry the flavors perfectly.
How to Serve Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe is where you can add freshness and a bit of crunch. A generous sprinkle of chopped parsley brings vibrant color and a light herbal note that cuts through the richness beautifully. If you want, add some extra grated Parmesan on top for an added cheesy kick that melts right into the warmth of the pasta.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy Alfredo sauce. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is also a perfect partner, ready to mop up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve this rigatoni in individual shallow bowls garnished with a sprig of fresh parsley and a crack of black pepper. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the top to add texture and pops of flavor that surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency and avoid soggy pasta.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save some for later. Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened or separated. Stir often to bring back the creamy texture and prevent the pasta from drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave, but do so in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of rigatoni?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is ideal due to its ridges and size, other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni’s close relative, or even fusilli work wonderfully with this creamy sauce. The key is choosing pasta that holds the sauce well.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with a creamy plant-based alternative and use vegan butter and dairy-free Parmesan cheese. The garlic sausage can remain the same, but check its ingredients to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Garlic sausage is perfect because it adds a deep, savory garlic flavor. You can also experiment with smoked or spicy sausages to give the dish a new twist. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly if your sausage is already heavily seasoned.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can bring in extra texture and nutrients while complementing the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully. Simply cook them before making the sauce, then mix them in when tossing the pasta.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate more red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper when seasoning the Alfredo sauce. Spicy Italian sausage varieties also add natural heat if you prefer not to adjust the sauce’s spice level.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe is a delightful triumph of creamy comforting flavors and bold garlic goodness that feels both indulgent and satisfying. It’s an easy recipe to make any night of the week yet impressive enough to serve when guests arrive. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta dish that keeps everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is a rich and hearty Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring tender rigatoni pasta tossed in a creamy garlic Alfredo sauce paired with savory slices of garlic sausage. This easy-to-make recipe balances the bold flavors of browned sausage and garlic with the smoothness of Parmesan-enriched cream sauce, culminating in a comforting meal perfect for any weeknight. Finished with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes, it delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes in every bite.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Sausage & Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb garlic sausage, sliced or crumbled
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the garlic sausage slices or crumbles and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and continue simmering for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
- Toss Together: Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the drained rigatoni pasta and toss everything thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Finish Cooking: Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes over low heat to ensure the pasta and sausage are heated through and the flavors combine well.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use smoked or spicy garlic sausage for a variation in flavor.
- Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to introduce extra texture and nutrients.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
