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

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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.