Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

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Sausage Rigatoni with Roasted Tomatoes is a hearty, flavorful pasta dish that combines savory sausage, caramelized roasted tomatoes, and a rich, garlicky sauce. The rigatoni holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying and delicious. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, Savory Flavors – The combination of sausage, roasted tomatoes, and garlic makes for a deeply flavorful dish.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together in under an hour.
Great for Meal Prep – Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Customizable – Easily adjust spice levels or swap ingredients for different flavors.
Comforting and Satisfying – A perfect balance of protein, carbs, and rich sauce.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rigatoni pasta
Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
Cherry or grape tomatoes
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Tomato paste
Heavy cream (or substitute with whole milk for a lighter version)
Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh basil, for garnish
Salt and black pepper

Directions

Roast the tomatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until blistered and caramelized.
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles, until browned. Remove any excess grease if needed.
Sauté the aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant and softened. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes and tomato paste, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
Make the sauce: Pour in the reserved pasta water and stir to deglaze the pan. Add heavy cream and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and roasted tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the rigatoni is well coated in the sauce.
Finish with cheese and herbs: Stir in grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve: Dish up the pasta hot, garnished with more Parmesan and basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes for a kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based sausage.
Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Cheesy Addition: Add fresh mozzarella or ricotta for an extra creamy texture.
Pesto Twist: Stir in a spoonful of pesto for an herby boost.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or orecchiette work well in place of rigatoni.

What type of sausage works best?

Mild or spicy Italian sausage is ideal, but you can also use chicken sausage for a leaner option.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Reserve some pasta water and add it gradually to loosen the sauce as needed.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but roasting fresh tomatoes adds a richer, sweeter flavor to the dish.

Is this dish spicy?

It depends on the sausage and red pepper flakes. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully with the flavors.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a plant-based cream alternative and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Stir in an extra splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta cheese before serving.

Conclusion

Sausage Rigatoni with Roasted Tomatoes is a deliciously hearty meal that’s easy to make yet packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this pasta recipe is sure to be a hit. Try different variations, pair it with your favorite wine, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and flavorful!