Craving a comforting yet flavorful dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This HelloFresh-inspired Chicken Sausage Rigatoni recipe delivers a delicious, healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and adaptable to your taste preferences. Get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that tastes like it came from a fancy Italian restaurant, but without the fuss!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken sausage, casings removed (can substitute with Italian sausage)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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Build the Sauce: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet along with the drained rigatoni. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use them instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spice it up: For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use different pasta: This recipe works well with other pasta shapes, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This HelloFresh-inspired Chicken Sausage Rigatoni is a perfect example of how quick and easy healthy meals can be. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish any night of the week! It’s a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or a casual weeknight meal. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it a great recipe for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.