This creamy and indulgent Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni combines tender rigatoni with savory garlic sausage and a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s a perfect dinner option that’s easy to prepare and loaded with flavor.
Author:xqppw
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Category:Main Dish
Cuisine:Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Serves 4-6:
For the pasta:
12 oz (340 g) rigatoni pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the sausage and sauce:
1 lb (450 g) garlic sausage, sliced or crumbled
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Salt, to taste
For garnish:
Chopped parsley or basil
Extra Parmesan cheese
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 and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Cook the sausage:
In a large skillet, cook the garlic sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
Prepare the Alfredo sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine the ingredients:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Add the cooked rigatoni and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
Serve:
Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
Substitute garlic sausage with Italian sausage or your favorite smoked sausage for a variation.
For added texture, toss in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.