If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, the Creamy Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious pasta combines perfectly cooked rigatoni with a velvety garlic Alfredo sauce enriched by savory Italian sausage, making every bite a creamy, flavorful delight. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this recipe delivers indulgence and simplicity all in one pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in crafting that rich, creamy texture and deep, satisfying flavor that define this dish.
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta: The ridges and tubes hold onto the sauce beautifully for every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage perfectly without sticking.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Adds a robust, savory flavor that’s the heart of this dish.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a silky base for the Alfredo sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce into that perfect creamy consistency.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The star of the Alfredo which delivers richness and smoothness.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy kick that melts into the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides mild heat and balances the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little spicy surprise.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color to finish the dish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Draining it just right ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture perfectly when tossed in the rich Alfredo sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Browning the sausage is crucial because it builds layers of flavor and adds a satisfying, meaty texture to your creamy pasta dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. This step infuses the entire dish with that signature garlicky warmth that can’t be skipped.
Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce Base
Push the sausage and garlic mixture to one side of the skillet and melt butter in the cleared space. Stir in the flour, cooking it gently for about a minute to create a roux. This process is essential for thickening your Alfredo sauce to a luxurious, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until everything melts together into a rich, smooth sauce.
Step 6: Combine Rigatoni and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat every piece in the creamy garlic sausage Alfredo sauce. Let it cook together for another minute or two to marry the flavors and heat everything through perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to brighten the dish with a touch of fresh color and a subtle herbaceous note that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts pairs wonderfully, cutting through the creaminess and complementing the sausage’s savoriness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the rigatoni on warmed plates, and drizzle a little extra Parmesan over the top just before serving. You could also offer some crusty garlic bread on the side to scoop up any leftover creamy sauce—that’s pure comfort food bliss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover creamy garlic sausage Alfredo rigatoni in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly. Freeze in a leak-proof container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help revive the sauce back to its silky perfection.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Spicy Italian sausage adds a nice kick, but you can switch it up with turkey sausage for a leaner option or even mild sausage if you prefer less heat.
Is it possible to make the sauce without heavy cream?
While heavy cream is ideal for that luxurious texture, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour for thickening. The sauce will be lighter but still tasty.
How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from curdling?
Be sure to add the cream gradually while whisking and avoid cooking on excessively high heat. Gentle simmering helps keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free rigatoni and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to keep the sauce thick and rich without gluten.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat on low heat with a splash of cream or water, stirring frequently. This method keeps the sauce moist and silky instead of drying out or becoming too thick.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration in your own kitchen. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough for special moments. I truly hope you try it soon and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness that only this recipe can deliver.
Print
Creamy 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-American
Description
Creamy Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is a rich and comforting Italian-American pasta dish featuring al dente rigatoni enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused Alfredo sauce with savory Italian sausage. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion, this one-pan stovetop recipe combines the hearty flavors of browned sausage, creamy Parmesan sauce, and subtle heat from red pepper flakes for a deliciously indulgent meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
Sauce & Sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burning.
- Make Roux: Push the sausage to the side of the pan, melt the butter in the center, then stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Cream Sauce: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce. Cook for 1–2 more minutes to heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and serve hot, enjoying the rich, garlicky flavors.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of pasta water or an extra tablespoon of butter at the end to loosen the sauce.
- Use spicy Italian sausage to add a kick of heat, or substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- If desired, add steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas to enhance nutrition and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
