Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni. This recipe brings together the perfect combination of savory Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and three kinds of melty cheese — ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan — all tossed with al dente rigatoni pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and sure to please the whole family.

Why It Works Every Time

This Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni works every time because it balances bold, aromatic flavors with creamy textures and satisfying pasta. The Italian sausage adds a savory, spiced protein component that infuses the sauce with richness. Simmering crushed tomatoes with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs creates a vibrant sauce that clings beautifully to the ridged rigatoni, ensuring every bite is coated with flavor.

The trio of cheeses contributes layers of creaminess and gooey goodness — ricotta adds a smooth, mild creaminess, mozzarella brings stretch and melt, and Parmesan offers a sharp, nutty finish. The optional red pepper flakes give a subtle kick without overwhelming the dish. Finally, fresh basil adds a bright, herbal note just before serving. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for those who love classic Italian flavors with a cheesy twist.

Gather These Ingredients

• 2 cups rigatoni pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (choose chicken or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot – for boiling the rigatoni
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the sausage and sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
• Cheese grater – if shredding your own mozzarella and Parmesan
• Serving dish or casserole – to assemble and serve the pasta

Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni Made Stepwise

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix everything well. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 6: Add the Cheeses

Lower the heat and dollop the ricotta cheese over the pasta. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of this classic pasta dish.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Use gluten-free rigatoni or pasta alternative to make the dish gluten-free.
• Swap out ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for dairy-free cheese alternatives made from cashews or coconut.
• Use olive oil or vegan butter to sauté instead of any animal fats.
• Ensure the sausage substitute is plant-based or made from gluten-free ingredients, if needed.

Behind the Recipe

This Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni recipe was inspired by traditional Italian flavors with a modern, cheesy twist. The use of chicken or turkey sausage keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing any of the spice and aroma that makes Italian sausage so beloved. Simmering the sauce slowly allows the herbs and garlic to truly shine through, and the combination of three cheeses gives a richness that’s both creamy and gooey.

It’s a versatile recipe that you can easily customize by swapping in your favorite pasta shapes or adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For a baked version, try layering this pasta mixture with extra ricotta and mozzarella, similar to dishes like Baked Ziti With Ricotta, for a golden, bubbly casserole.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers of this delicious Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

This dish also freezes well! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as suggested above. The cheese might separate slightly after freezing but stirring well will bring it back to a creamy consistency.

Reader Q&A

Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild?

Absolutely! Using spicy Italian sausage will add a nice kick to the sauce. Just adjust the red pepper flakes accordingly if you want to control the heat level.

Is it okay to use fresh tomatoes instead of crushed canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if they are ripe and flavorful. Just blanch, peel, and crush about 6-8 medium tomatoes to replace the 28-ounce can, then simmer the sauce a bit longer to develop the flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sausage mixture a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready, cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving for the freshest taste.

What can I serve with this pasta to make a full meal?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables make great sides. For a protein alternative, try pairing it with a light entrée like Crispy Chicken Parmesan for an indulgent Italian feast.

More from the Kitchen

• Baked Ziti With Ricotta – A cheesy baked pasta dish perfect for family dinners.
• Crispy Chicken Parmesan – Crunchy, cheesy, and delicious chicken that pairs well with pasta.
• Creamy Spinach Pasta – A green twist on classic creamy pasta dishes.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta – For seafood lovers wanting quick, flavorful pasta.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have everything lined up, it’s time to make this Cheesy Italian Sausage Rigatoni your own. From the sizzle of the sausage hitting the pan to the irresistible pull of melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining friends, this pasta delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let’s get cooking!

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