Let me tell you, there’s something incredibly comforting about a big bowl of Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it’s oh-so-easy to whip up! I remember the first time I made this dish for my family—it was a chilly Sunday evening, and the aroma of savory sausage and sautéed garlic wafted through the house. My kids rushed into the kitchen, drawn in by the smell, and I could see their eyes light up as they anticipated dinner. It quickly became a family favorite, perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknights. Honestly, the combination of spicy sausage, fresh spinach, and the warm embrace of pasta feels like a hug on a plate. You’ll want to keep this recipe close; trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients List
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta: This is the star of the dish! You can use any brand you prefer, but make sure it’s a sturdy pasta that can hold up to the hearty sauce.
- 1 lb Italian sausage: I love using spicy Italian sausage for that extra kick, but sweet sausage works just as well if you prefer a milder flavor. Just be sure to remove it from the casing before cooking.
- 3 cups fresh spinach: Fresh is best for this dish! You can chop it roughly or leave it whole, depending on your preference.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz): You can go for the regular or fire-roasted variety for a smokier flavor. Just make sure to drain some of the liquid if you prefer a thicker sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor. You can always add more if you’re a garlic lover like me!
- 1 medium onion, chopped: I usually use yellow or white onions, but red onion can add a nice sweetness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and adds that creamy finish to the dish. Don’t skimp on this one!
- 2 tbsp olive oil: This is for sautéing the onion and garlic. Extra virgin olive oil works wonders for flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These are essential for seasoning your dish perfectly. Always taste as you go!
How to Prepare Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach is as straightforward as it gets, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, toss in your 12 oz of rigatoni pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. You don’t want it too soft because it’ll continue cooking when you mix it with the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t rinse it! That starch helps the sauce cling later.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Now, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step is super important because it builds the flavor base for your dish!
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Next up, it’s time to add that delicious Italian sausage! Crumble 1 lb of sausage into the skillet, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Make sure it’s fully cooked through; no one likes undercooked sausage! The aroma will be amazing, and your kitchen will smell like an Italian trattoria.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spinach
Once the sausage is browned, stir in the 14 oz can of diced tomatoes (drained a bit, if you like) and your 3 cups of fresh spinach. Cook everything together for about 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts down. It adds such a vibrant color and fresh flavor to the dish!
Step 5: Combine Rigatoni and Cheese
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add your cooked rigatoni to the skillet and mix everything well. Then, sprinkle in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating that creamy goodness we all love. If it looks a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash of pasta water!
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. I usually go easy on the salt since the sausage and cheese are already quite savory. Serve hot, garnished with a little extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling fancy. Wow, your family or guests will be so impressed! Enjoy every comforting bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty and satisfying, combining comforting flavors in every bite.
- Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients.
- Versatile—swap in your favorite sausage or greens!
- One-pan dish means less cleanup—who doesn’t love that?
Tips for Success
To make your Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach truly shine, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of sausage—try chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option, or go for a smoked variety for extra depth of flavor. If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic. For an extra layer of flavor, a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning can work wonders! And remember, always taste your dish as you go to adjust seasoning to your liking!
Nutritional Information
Before diving into this delicious Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach, it’s good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Typically, one serving (about 1 cup) contains:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
With this hearty meal, you’re getting a great balance of flavors and nutrients, making it not just comforting but also satisfying!
FAQ About Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up and make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or some sautéed mushrooms for that hearty texture. You could also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to keep it vibrant and delicious. Trust me, it’ll still be packed with flavor!
What sides pair well with Sausage Rigatoni?
This dish is so satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking for sides, I recommend a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread is another classic choice—you can’t go wrong with that! Roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli also work beautifully to round out your meal.
Can I use frozen spinach instead?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. This will help avoid a watery sauce. Frozen spinach is a great time-saver and still brings that lovely green goodness to your dish!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is always a bonus!), store your Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, but trust me, it’s so good you might not have any left! When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat, toss in the rigatoni, and stir until heated through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture and flavorful sauce. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it—nobody likes rubbery pasta!
For more tips on cooking pasta, check out this guide from The Kitchn.
Print
Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach: 5 Comforting Reasons to Indulge
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach is a hearty pasta dish that combines savory sausage with fresh spinach.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until onion is translucent.
- Add sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts.
- Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Mix well.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use spicy sausage for extra flavor.
- Substitute kale for spinach if desired.
- Top with extra cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach, Pasta Recipe, Italian Dish