Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta (or any tube-shaped pasta)
- 1 lb fennel sausage (bulk sausage without casing)
- 1 cup onion, chopped (yellow or white onion)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz can)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
6 steps
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the fennel sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned.
Ensure the sausage is fully cooked through.Add Aromatics
Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Avoid burning the garlic by stirring frequently.Combine Ingredients
Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Adjust seasoning to your taste.Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
Serve immediately for the best texture.Garnish and Serve
Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Serve hot for maximum flavor.
💡 Tips & Tricks
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Up to 3 days in an airtight container
Freezer
Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What to Serve With
Complete your italian meal with these perfect pairings:
About This Dish
Delicious Rigatoni with Fennel Sausage Sauce Recipe is a beloved dish from Italian cuisine.
Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its emphasis on simple, quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each region of Italy has its own distinct culinary traditions, passed down through generations.
This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 13 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute with Italian sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
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Nutrition Facts
4 serving(s) per recipe
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
