30-Minute ONE-POT Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Marinara Sauce

Introduction

30-Minute ONE-POT Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Marinara Sauce is a quick and delicious meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It brings together hearty sausage, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach all cooked in one pot. This dish is not only tasty, but it also saves you time and dishes!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it is fast and easy! You get a complete meal all in one pot, which means less cleanup. Plus, it is creamy and full of flavor, making it a hit with the whole family.

How to Make 30-Minute ONE-POT Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Marinara Sauce

Ingredients:

1 pound Italian sausage (ground)
12 ounces rigatoni pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook it until browned. Break it up with a spoon while cooking.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it smells nice.
Pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Stir everything together.
Add the rigatoni pasta and enough water to cover the pasta. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, stirring now and then, until it is al dente and most of the liquid is gone (about 10-12 minutes).
Mix in the fresh spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, and add fresh basil on top if you like.

How to Serve 30-Minute ONE-POT Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Marinara Sauce

This dish is best served warm, right after cooking. You can serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a full meal.

How to Store 30-Minute ONE-POT Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Marinara Sauce

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make 30-Minute ONE-POT Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with Spinach and Marinara Sauce

Make sure to stir often while cooking the pasta to keep it from sticking.
Adjust the amount of marinara sauce based on your preference for a creamier or more tomato-based sauce.
If you want more veggies, feel free to add bell peppers or mushrooms!

Variation (If Any)

You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or substitute the rigatoni with any pasta shape you have on hand. For a spicier dish, try adding red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! You can use chicken sausage or spicy sausage if you like more heat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, swap out the rigatoni for gluten-free pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?
While it is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.