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Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach, Garlic, and Tomato Cream Sauce – A One-Pan, 30-Minute Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick yet satisfying pasta recipe that feels both cozy and indulgent, this Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach, Garlic, and Tomato Cream Sauce is a perfect choice. Juicy chicken or beef sausage pairs beautifully with a garlicky tomato cream sauce that’s balanced with fresh spinach and finished with parmesan. This one-pan pasta dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The rigatoni soaks up all that creamy, savory goodness, giving you a restaurant-quality meal right at home with minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta & Protein
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 lb chicken or beef sausage sliced into rounds
Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
Sauce Base
  • 1 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
Seasoning & Garnish
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander

Method
 

Step 1: Cook rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
    Step 2: In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
      Step 3: In the same skillet, add onion and sauté 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
        Step 4: Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
          Step 5: Add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
            Step 6: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently until sauce thickens slightly.
              Step 7: Add sausage back into the sauce along with spinach. Stir until spinach wilts.
                Step 8: Toss in cooked rigatoni, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
                  Step 9: Stir in parmesan and adjust seasoning to taste.
                    Step 10: Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

                      Notes

                      🧊 Storage & Reheating
                      Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
                      Freezer: Freeze cooled pasta in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
                      Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth, or microwave in short bursts.
                      🥄 Variations
                      Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausage or add extra chili flakes.
                      Cheese Lovers: Stir in ricotta or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
                      Low-Carb: Swap rigatoni for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
                      Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted peppers.
                      Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
                      ❓ 10 FAQs
                      1. Can I use pork sausage?
                      No, this recipe uses chicken or beef sausage for a pork-free version.
                      2. Can I make it dairy-free?
                      Yes, use coconut cream and dairy-free parmesan.
                      3. Can I use another pasta shape?
                      Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well.
                      4. Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
                      Yes, cooking separately ensures the rigatoni doesn’t overcook.
                      5. Can I make this ahead of time?
                      Yes, store in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of broth.
                      6. Can I use turkey sausage instead?
                      Yes, it’s a great lean option.
                      7. Can I skip the spinach?
                      Yes, but it adds a nice balance of freshness.
                      8. How can I thicken the sauce more?
                      Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
                      9. What sides go well with this dish?
                      Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted veggies.
                      10. Can I double the recipe?
                      Yes, just use a large enough skillet or Dutch oven.
                      🏁 Conclusion
                      This Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach, Garlic, and Tomato Cream Sauce is the ultimate one-pan pasta dish—quick, comforting, and full of flavor. With hearty sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and tender rigatoni, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Serve it with garlic bread or a side salad, and you’ve got a complete meal in just 30 minutes.