This hearty and flavorful Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers is the perfect comfort food for any day of the week. The dish combines tender rigatoni pasta with savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, creating a meal that is both filling and satisfying. The addition of garlic, onions, and a touch of Parmesan cheese elevates the flavors, making each bite a delicious experience. This recipe is easy to prepare and is sure to please everyone around the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and vibrant colors. The combination of sausage and peppers gives it a wonderful savory depth, while the rigatoni helps to absorb all the rich, tomato-based sauce. Top it off with fresh basil for a fragrant finish, and you have a meal that’s comforting and full of Italian-inspired goodness. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that’s quick and full of flavor, this Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers is the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers is a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly while still delivering big on flavor. The robust combination of Italian sausage, sautéed peppers, and a rich tomato sauce makes this dish incredibly satisfying. It’s packed with textures, from the hearty sausage to the tender pasta and the tender-crisp peppers, all tied together with a savory sauce. The dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or cheeses to make it your own. Plus, the ingredients are simple, making it easy to prepare even on a busy night. This recipe is also great for meal prep, as the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers is a dish that guarantees everyone will be coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Rigatoni pasta
Italian sausage
Red bell pepper
Yellow bell pepper
Onion
Garlic
Crushed tomatoes
Chicken broth
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper
Fresh basil

Variations

While this dish is already a winner in its classic form, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your taste:

Add more vegetables: You can toss in additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use different sausage: While Italian sausage works beautifully, you can substitute with turkey sausage or even chicken sausage for a leaner version of the dish.
Spicy kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy sausage for an extra punch.
Use other pasta: If rigatoni isn’t available, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle as a substitute.
Cheese options: While Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty bite, you can try other cheeses like mozzarella or Pecorino Romano for different flavor profiles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Begin by cooking the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions. Once it is al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Chicken Broth

Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Return the Sausage to the Skillet

Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato mixture. Let the sausage heat through, and the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Rigatoni

Once the sausage and vegetables are well combined in the sauce, add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

Step 7: Stir in Parmesan and Season

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet and stir to incorporate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers hot, garnished with fresh basil for an added burst of flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Brown the sausage well: Browning the sausage fully enhances its flavor and adds a savory depth to the dish. Be sure to break it apart into small pieces for a more even texture.
Don’t overcook the peppers: To keep the bell peppers tender yet crisp, don’t overcook them. A few minutes of sautéing will provide the perfect texture.
Seasoning to taste: Always taste the sauce before serving. Depending on the acidity of your tomatoes, you may need to add a little extra salt or pepper to balance the flavors.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and add a creamier texture to the sauce compared to pre-grated cheese.

How to Serve

Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs well with a variety of sides. You can serve it with a simple side salad, such as a green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for some extra crunch. Garlic bread or crusty bread also makes a great accompaniment to help soak up any extra sauce. A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the flavors of this dish beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta and sauce will keep their flavor and texture, but the pasta may soak up some of the sauce as it sits.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow the pasta and sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to season it well for flavor.

2. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, if you don’t have rigatoni, you can use any other type of pasta, such as penne or farfalle.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

4. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer longer to reduce, or add a splash of cream for richness.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Simply reheat when ready to serve.

6. What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water, though the flavor may be slightly different.

7. Can I make this recipe with spicy sausage?

Yes, if you like a bit of heat, you can use spicy Italian sausage or add some red pepper flakes to the dish.

8. Can I use canned bell peppers?

While fresh bell peppers are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use jarred or canned bell peppers in a pinch.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s properly stored in an airtight container.

10. How do I know when the sausage is fully cooked?

The sausage should be browned and no longer pink in the center. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Conclusion

Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines hearty sausage, tender pasta, and colorful peppers in a savory tomato sauce. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds!