This Italian Sausage Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and a luxurious cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. The combination of rigatoni, chicken broth, and heavy cream creates a velvety sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 30 minutes
Total Time
- 40 minutes
Servings
- 4–6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed rosemary
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 12 oz uncooked rigatoni (or pasta of choice)
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Italian Sausage
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.
- Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet with the sausage drippings, add the chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add Herbs and Spices
- Sprinkle in the dried marjoram, black pepper, crushed rosemary, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce
- Return the skillet with the onions and herbs to medium heat. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate the flavors.
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked Italian sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the sausage and cream sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for extra flavor and presentation.
- Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, creamy Italian sausage pasta!
Pro Tips
- Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat—add more for a spicier dish or omit for a milder flavor.
- Pasta Choice: Rigatoni works well because its ridges hold the creamy sauce, but penne, fusilli, or fettuccine are great alternatives.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, sauté sliced mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers along with the onions.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Sausage Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make yet feels indulgent and restaurant-worthy. The creamy sauce, savory sausage, and aromatic herbs create a symphony of flavors that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its hearty texture and rich taste.
Ready to whip up this comforting pasta dish? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor every creamy, flavorful bite!
