Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold Italian flavor, this Spicy Sausage Rigatoni is the perfect weeknight comfort meal. Tender rigatoni is tossed with savory Italian sausage in a rich tomato cream sauce with just the right amount of heat. Ready in about 35 minutes, it’s an easy family dinner that’s guaranteed to disappear fast!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound rigatoni
• 1 pound hot Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼–½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Meanwhile, brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add the onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan before serving.

Texas Girl Tips ❤️

• Stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving for an extra silky sauce.
• Add a handful of fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking.
• Love spice? Increase the red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey before serving.
• Serve with warm garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad.