Name: One-Pan Pasta Deliciousness: Easy Sausage & Creamy Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken & Apple Sausage (Main protein source, can substitute with any sausage variety.); 1 medium Onion (Yellow or white onion works best.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced for best flavor.); 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper or Aleppo Pepper (Optional for added heat.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Deepens tomato flavor.); 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes (Forms the body of the sauce.); 1 lb Rigatoni (Can substitute with penne or fusilli.); 6-8 cups Chicken Stock or Water (Essential for cooking pasta.); 3 oz Boursin Cheese (Adds creamy richness.); 3 tablespoons Butter (Enriches sauce.); to taste Salt (Adjust as needed.); to taste Black Pepper (Adjust as needed.); optional Chopped Parsley or Basil (Fresh garnish.); optional Grated Parmesan (Optional for serving.)

As I was savoring the rich aroma wafting from my kitchen, I couldn’t help but think of how cooking can transform our daily routines into delightful culinary adventures. This One-Pan Creamy Tomato Rigatoni with Sausage captures that essence perfectly. Not only does this recipe allow us to whip up a satisfying meal with minimal fuss, but it also brilliantly combines the flavors of savory sausage and a luscious creamy sauce, all while cutting down on dishwashing. You’ll find that cooking pasta directly in the sauce creates a texture and depth of flavor that traditional methods simply can’t match. So, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a household favorite. Curious about how easy it is to bring this comforting dish to life?

How can pasta be this easy?

Simplicity is key with this one-pan delight—no need for multiple pots or pans, just flavor in every bite! Rich, creamy sauce envelops the rigatoni, making each forkful irresistible. Versatile ingredients mean you can switch out proteins or add vegetables based on what you have at home. Crowd-pleaser: perfect for busy families or entertaining guests! Plus, it’s inspired by traditional Italian cooking, elevating your meal with authenticity. Dive into this recipe alongside our Club Sandwich Pasta or other pasta favorites for endless deliciousness!

One-Pan Pasta Ingredients

Get ready to explore the flavors of this one-pan pasta dish!

For the Sausage
• Chicken & Apple Sausage – Main protein source that brings both flavor and texture; feel free to substitute with any sausage variety you prefer.

For the Sauce Base
• Onion – Provides sweetness and a flavorful foundation; yellow or white onion works best.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances aroma and taste; garlic powder can be used but in smaller amounts.
• Crushed Red Pepper or Aleppo Pepper (optional) – Adds a bit of heat; skip if you prefer a milder dish.
• Tomato Paste – Deepens the tomato flavor in the sauce; you can also use tomato sauce in a pinch.
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can) – Forms the luscious body of the sauce, giving it that rich texture.

For the Pasta
• Rigatoni (1 lb) – The star of this one-pan pasta; substitutes like penne or fusilli can work here too.
• Chicken Stock or Water (6-8 cups) – Essential for cooking the pasta while helping achieve a creamy texture through starch; vegetable stock is great for a vegetarian version.

For the Creamy Finish
• Boursin Cheese (3 oz) – Adds a delightful creamy richness; feel free to swap it with cream cheese if needed.
• Butter (3 tbsp) – Enriches the sauce beautifully; margarine can replace it in a pinch.

For Seasoning & Garnish
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for elevating flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
• Chopped Parsley or Basil (optional) – A touch of freshness to garnish your dish; other herbs can be substituted as desired.
• Grated Parmesan (optional) – Adds a savory finish and enhances richness; feel free to leave it out for a lighter option.

Explore the delightful simplicity of this one-pan pasta and bring it to life in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Creamy Tomato Rigatoni with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken and apple sausage, cooking until browned and slightly crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan, allowing the flavorful bits to remain for the next steps.

Step 2: Build Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add one chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and optional crushed red pepper; let cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, stirring continuously for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Tomatoes
Pour in one can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the onion-garlic mixture. Next, add one pound of dry rigatoni, ensuring it’s well-coated with the sauce. Season lightly with salt and black pepper, preparing for the liquid to complete this one-pan pasta dish.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Carefully pour enough chicken stock or water—about 6–8 cups—over the rigatoni to cover completely. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking uncovered for approximately 30 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking, adding more liquid if needed, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened beautifully.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Once the rigatoni is tender, return the browned sausage to the skillet. Off the heat, stir in 3 tablespoons of butter and 3 oz of Boursin cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired, making this one-pan creamy tomato rigatoni a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any gathering.

How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftover one-pan pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures you maintain that creamy texture and rich flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze in small portions using freezer-safe containers. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months, ready for a comforting meal later.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently on the stove with a splash of chicken stock or water to revive the sauce’s consistency.

Room Temperature: If serving warm leftovers, do not leave the pasta out for more than 2 hours to avoid spoilage.

Expert Tips for One-Pan Pasta

Watch the Timing: Keep an eye on your pasta’s doneness by tasting, instead of relying solely on cooking times; each stove is different.
Stir Frequently: Stir often to prevent the rigatoni from sticking to the bottom; this ensures even cooking and prevents burning in your one-pan pasta dish.
Adjust Liquid as Needed: If the sauce becomes too thick while cooking, don’t hesitate to add more chicken stock or water for optimal creaminess and consistency.
Season Gradually: Begin with a light hand on salt and pepper and adjust throughout the cooking process; flavors deepen as the dish simmers.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs for garnish—like fresh basil or parsley—for an extra burst of flavor and freshness in your one-pan pasta.

What to Serve with One-Pan Creamy Tomato Rigatoni with Sausage

When crafting a cozy family meal, it’s all about blending flavors and textures that bring comfort and delight to the table.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a crunchy, fragrant contrast to the creamy pasta, perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
Simple Side Salad: A crisp side salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli not only complements the savory sausage but also adds a nutritious green element to your plate. Toss it with a little olive oil and lemon for extra flair.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots bring sweetness and earthiness, harmonizing beautifully with the tomato sauce’s acidity.
Creamy Polenta: Serving a side of soft, creamy polenta offers a comforting base that’s perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce.
Sparkling Water or Wines: Pair with a refreshing sparkling water or a light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, which enhances the meal with its crispness.

This delightful array of sides promises to elevate your one-pan pasta experience, creating a truly unforgettable dining moment.

One-Pan Pasta Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this creamy tomato rigatoni your own with some simple adjustments and tasty twists!

Turkey Sausage: Swap chicken sausage for turkey sausage to lighten the dish without compromising flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausage or omit the meat entirely, adding extra veggies for a nutrient-packed meal.
Cheese Swap: Try ricotta or mozzarella for a different creamy dimension—each brings its unique richness to the dish.
Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers during the cooking process for an added nutritional punch.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery finish that transforms the dish into a real crowd-pleaser!
Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill to personalize the aroma and taste based on your mood.
Creamy Alternative: For a different creaminess, substitute Boursin with goat cheese or a dollop of sour cream for a tangy twist.

You can pair this one-pan wonder with our Onion Soup Pasta for a hearty meal or enjoy the comforting flavors of our Mozzarella Tortellini Pasta for a delightful variation. Each substitution opens a world of flavors, keeping your weeknight dinners exciting!

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Creamy Tomato Rigatoni with Sausage are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the sausage and vegetable base (steps 1 and 2) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can measure out the rigatoni and keep it sealed to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, simply reheat the base on the stove, add the rigatoni and tomatoes, and pour in the chicken stock; then follow steps 4 and 5 for a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort. With these prep tips, you’ll savor incredible flavors on even the busiest weeknights!

One-Pan Creamy Tomato Rigatoni with Sausage Recipe FAQs

What type of sausage can I use in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken and apple sausage is a great choice for its flavor, you can substitute it with any sausage variety you prefer. Feel free to try pork, turkey, or even a spicy Italian sausage for a kick!

How should I store any leftovers?
Store leftover one-pan pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the creamy texture and rich flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, possibly with a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.

Can I freeze this one-pan pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze it! For best results, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stove with a splash of chicken stock or water until it’s heated through.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens more than you’d like while cooking, simply add more chicken stock or water, a bit at a time, while being mindful to stir frequently. This will help achieve the ideal creamy consistency without losing flavor, so you’d be left with that delightful, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta wonderfully!

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it can be easily adapted! Use a plant-based sausage alternative and vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Additionally, consider adding veggies like spinach or zucchini to enhance the dish while keeping it hearty and nutritious.

How can I tell when the pasta is done cooking?
Great question! Instead of relying solely on cooking time, taste the pasta to check for doneness. It should be al dente—cooked but still firm to the bite. Continue to stir and monitor as it simmers, adjusting liquid as needed to avoid any burning and ensure perfect pasta texture.