Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

Indulge in a deliciously creamy, garlic-infused pasta dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes! This Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is perfect for weeknights or any day when you need a satisfying, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines tender rigatoni, rich Alfredo sauce, and savory garlic sausage for an irresistible dinner that’s anything but boring!

Be sure to bookmark this recipe, subscribe to get even more delicious meal ideas by email, and let’s dive into the details of what makes this dish so unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

This recipe brings together everything you crave in a cozy pasta dish:

• Incredible flavor: The garlic sausage adds a savory, slightly spicy kick, while fresh garlic and Parmesan cheese make the Alfredo sauce rich and aromatic.
• Easy and quick: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Crowd-pleaser: It’s a meal everyone will rave about, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

With every creamy, garlicky bite, this pasta brings a touch of indulgence, warmth, and, of course, a delightful dose of garlic!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this garlic sausage Alfredo rigatoni:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta – A hearty pasta that holds up well in creamy sauces.
• 4 garlic sausage links, sliced – Opt for mild or spicy, based on your preference.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the sausage.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a fresh garlic punch.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream – The base of the Alfredo sauce, making it rich and silky.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a creamy, nutty flavor.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Thins the sauce slightly while adding depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A touch of color and freshness to finish.

Kitchen Tools

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and knife for chopping
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Ladle for draining pasta water if needed

How to Make Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

Here’s how to make this creamy garlic sausage Alfredo rigatoni step-by-step:

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain and set aside, but don’t rinse—leaving a little starch on the pasta helps the sauce cling better!

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until each piece is nicely browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (careful not to let it brown!). Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to heat through.

4. Add the Cheese

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts and the sauce starts to thicken. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, but remember that Parmesan cheese is salty, so start with a light hand on the salt.

5. Combine Pasta and Sausage

Add the drained rigatoni and cooked sausage back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and sausage are well-coated in the Alfredo sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!

What to Serve with Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

This dish is a meal in itself, but you can add sides for an even heartier experience:

• Garlic bread or buttery breadsticks: A classic pairing that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce.
• Simple green salad: A fresh side with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables: Try broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for extra color and nutrition on the plate.

Tips for Making the Perfect Alfredo Rigatoni

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so freshly grate it if possible.
• Adjust sauce thickness: If you like a thinner sauce, add a splash more chicken broth. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few more minutes to reduce slightly.
• Keep the skillet warm, not hot: Avoid boiling the cream, as it can curdle—keep the sauce at a gentle simmer.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce’s creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni works great for soaking up the sauce, penne, ziti, or even fettuccine would work well. Just cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter option, use half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute.

Can I use another type of sausage?

Definitely! Italian sausage, chorizo, or any smoked sausage would add unique flavors to this dish. Just adjust the garlic if needed to balance flavors.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Certainly! Simply skip the sausage or replace it with mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly Alfredo.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 650 kcal
Carbohydrates: 56g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g

Final Thoughts on Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

This garlic sausage Alfredo rigatoni is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s simple enough to make any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to bring joy with every bite.

For more comforting pasta recipes, don’t miss out on our Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta or try an easy party hit with The Best Ever Stuffed Mushroom Dip Recipe. Each one brings its own unique twist and unforgettable flavor, just like this rigatoni!

Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest if you give this dish a try. Enjoy, and happy cooking!

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