Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Keto and Low-Carb Versions
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
8. Conclusion

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious dinner that’s easy to prepare, this Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is the perfect choice. This dish combines savory garlic sausage with a creamy Alfredo sauce that coats every bite of rigatoni pasta. It’s a comforting and rich meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying pasta dish that’s sure to become a favorite.

In this post, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, helpful cooking tips, and offer keto and low-carb alternatives.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb garlic sausage (sliced or crumbled)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

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. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the garlic sausage until browned and fully cooked. If using crumbled sausage, break it up as it cooks. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet, followed by the drained rigatoni. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!

Cooking Notes

• Garlic Sausage: You can use any type of garlic sausage for this recipe, whether it’s pre-cooked or raw. Just be sure to cook it through before adding it to the Alfredo sauce.
• Pasta Water: Reserving some of the pasta water is a great trick to help thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
• Cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese can sometimes result in a grainy texture.

Variations

• Spicy Alfredo: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Additions: For extra nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Sauté them in the skillet after cooking the sausage.
• Protein Swap: Replace the garlic sausage with grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

To make this Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni keto-friendly or low-carb, here are some easy modifications:

• Pasta Substitute: Use low-carb pasta, zucchini noodles (zoodles), or shirataki noodles in place of rigatoni to keep the dish low in carbs.
• Thickening Option: If the sauce needs more thickness, add cream cheese or use xanthan gum as a thickening agent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and cook the sausage ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then cook the pasta fresh and combine everything when ready to serve.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce as needed.

Can I Freeze This Dish?

While you can freeze the cooked sausage and Alfredo sauce, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when serving. Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, so reheat gently and whisk to bring it back together.

What Can I Serve With Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is a rich, creamy, and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of savory garlic sausage and the luscious Alfredo sauce is simply irresistible, and the best part is how easy it is to prepare. With options for low-carb modifications and different variations, this recipe is adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs.

Give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving a comforting pasta dish, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Don’t forget to share your version of Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni and let us know your favorite additions!

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