Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

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Introduction:
Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Featuring hearty rigatoni pasta, savory sausage, and a rich garlic Alfredo sauce, this dish brings together comforting flavors in a satisfying way. It’s easy to prepare and can be on the table in under 30 minutes, making it a great choice for weeknight meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

  • Rigatoni pasta: 12 ounces (340g)
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), casings removed: 1 pound (450g)
  • Garlic, minced: 4 cloves
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (100g), plus more for serving
  • Salt: to taste
  • Black pepper: to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): 2 tablespoons
  • Red pepper flakes (optional): ½ teaspoon (for a spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. 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. Drain and set aside.
  1. Cook the Sausage:
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
  1. Add Garlic:
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  1. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If using, add red pepper flakes for heat.
  1. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
  • Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  1. Serve:
  • Garnish the dish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips for Success

  • Reserve some pasta water before draining the rigatoni; it can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and color.

Recommendations

  • Pair this dish with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or milk if necessary.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 600 kcal
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fat: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg

(Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

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