If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this One Pot Sausage Rigatoni Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. Imagine tender rigatoni pasta cooked right in a savory blend of Italian sausage, rich tomatoes, and creamy sauce, all brought together in one pot. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and satisfies every craving for cozy Italian comfort food without the fuss of multiple pans and dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, yet each one brings an essential flavor, texture, or color that makes this dish shine. From the spicy sausage to fresh spinach, every element plays a starring role in creating a balanced, delicious meal.
- 1 pound Italian sausage, ground: Adds bold, savory flavor and a meaty richness that’s the base of the dish.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth when softened and cooked with the sausage.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant and slightly spicy aroma.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors.
- 28 ounce can kitchen ready ground peeled tomatoes (Pastene): A rich and chunky tomato base that adds vibrant color and tang.
- 1 ½ cups water: Helps cook the rigatoni evenly, creating the perfect pasta texture.
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta: Its ridged shape holds the sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
- ¾ cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and richness to finish the sauce.
- 5oz bag of baby spinach: Brings freshness, a pop of green, and a nutritional boost, wilting perfectly into the sauce.
How to Make One Pot Sausage Rigatoni Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding the ground Italian sausage. Crumble it as it cooks, allowing the meat to brown nicely while still holding some pink. This process takes about 4 to 5 minutes and builds a rich flavor base that’s essential for this dish.
Step 2: Soften the Onions
Add your diced yellow onion right into the pot with the sausage and sauté them together. Letting the onions cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften slightly adds a gentle sweetness that balances the spiciness of the sausage and deepens the overall taste.
Step 3: Garlic and Herbs
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, and kosher salt. Let the garlic cook for about a minute until fragrant, which will make your kitchen smell incredible and layer in a subtle kick that wakes up the sauce.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes, Pasta, and Water
Pour in the canned ground peeled tomatoes, rigatoni, and water. Mix everything well so the pasta is immersed in the flavorful liquid. Let it simmer for 13 to 15 minutes while stirring every few minutes; this helps the pasta cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 5: Creamy Finish and Spinach
Once your rigatoni is perfectly al dente, stir in the heavy cream to give the sauce that luscious, velvety texture we all crave. Add the baby spinach next, gently mixing it in as it wilts down, turning the dish into a comforting, colorful masterpiece. When the spinach is fully wilted, it’s time to take the pot off the heat and get ready to serve.
How to Serve One Pot Sausage Rigatoni Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this already delicious dish, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil leaves right on top. These simple garnishes add a bright, cheesy, and herbaceous finish that will impress everyone at your table.
Side Dishes
This One Pot Sausage Rigatoni Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to contrast the rich creaminess. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also perfect for soaking up every last bit of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the rigatoni in shallow bowls and drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil or chili flakes on top if you like a touch of heat. You can also add a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers just as good, if not better.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked One Pot Sausage Rigatoni Recipe in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the pasta might soften slightly after freezing and thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Microwave reheats well too, but stir halfway through to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Sweet Italian sausage or even spicy chorizo would work wonderfully, changing the flavor profile to suit your mood.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap out the rigatoni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cooking times might vary slightly, so check the pasta’s package instructions.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a bit of butter, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy.
Do I have to use fresh spinach, or can I use frozen?
Fresh baby spinach is ideal because it wilts beautifully without becoming watery, but if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain excess water first.
What can I do if I don’t have canned ground peeled tomatoes?
Crushed canned tomatoes or whole peeled tomatoes broken up with a spoon can work as a substitute, maintaining delicious tomato flavor in your sauce.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this One Pot Sausage Rigatoni Recipe, it will become a go-to favorite for busy nights when you want something warm, satisfying, and fuss-free. Its simple ingredients come together in a rich, creamy, and savory dish that feels like a big, comforting hug on a plate. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
One Pot Sausage Rigatoni Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One Pot Sausage Rigatoni is a hearty and creamy Italian-inspired pasta dish combining flavorful ground Italian sausage, tender rigatoni, and fresh baby spinach all cooked together in one pot for a convenient and delicious meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Produce
- 1 pound Italian sausage, ground
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 oz bag of baby spinach
Pantry Items
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 28 ounce can kitchen ready ground peeled tomatoes (Pastene)
- 1 ½ cups water
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
Dairy
- ¾ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage to the hot pot and crumble while cooking. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the sausage is partially cooked but still slightly pink inside.
- Sauté the Onions: Add the diced onions to the pot with the sausage. Stir to combine and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions have softened slightly, releasing their aroma.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Mix in the minced garlic, dried basil, and kosher salt. Continue cooking for 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not browned.
- Combine Tomatoes, Pasta, and Water: Pour in the canned ground peeled tomatoes, add the rigatoni pasta, and 1 ½ cups of water. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Let the mixture cook uncovered for 13 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
- Finish with Cream and Spinach: When the rigatoni is cooked to al dente, stir in the heavy cream. Then slowly add the baby spinach, mixing it gently as it wilts down and incorporates into the sauce. Once the spinach has fully wilted, remove the pot from the heat.
- Serve: Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with fresh basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- Be sure to stir frequently during pasta cooking to prevent the rigatoni from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- This recipe is convenient as it cooks all components in one pot, reducing cleanup time.
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or omit it completely.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
