Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

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Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with rich, garlicky flavors, Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food. This indulgent pasta dish features tender rigatoni coated in a luscious Alfredo sauce made with garlic-infused cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter. The addition of savory, crumbled sausage adds a depth of flavor that makes every bite irresistible.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta dish comes together quickly and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper add the perfect finishing touch, balancing the richness of the sauce. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.

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Ingredients for Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.

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Step 4: Add the Cheese and Seasoning

Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and creates a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Add the drained rigatoni and toss until the pasta is well coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy this rich and flavorful Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni!

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later! Let the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For reheating, warm the pasta in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each one to prevent drying out. Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~650 kcal
• Protein: ~22g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fat: ~40g
• Saturated Fat: ~20g
• Cholesterol: ~95mg
• Sodium: ~800mg
• Fiber: ~3g

Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni holds the sauce well, you can use penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti.

2. What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage (mild or spicy) is ideal, but you can substitute it with chicken sausage or even ground beef.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer longer, or add more Parmesan cheese. If needed, a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water can help thicken it.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

5. What can I serve with this pasta?

A fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this creamy dish.

6. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese. Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative to Italian sausage.

7. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes add extra flavor and nutrition.

8. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan and add it gradually over low heat to avoid clumping.

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