Rigatoni Alla Buttera
Creamy rigatoni with Italian sausage and peas offers a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining rich tomato sauce and savory sausage.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel casings off the Italian sausages and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
- Drain excess fat and crumble the cooked sausage into small pieces.
- Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet with the sausage and mix well.
- Stir in heavy cream and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens.
- Meanwhile, cook the dried rigatoni in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Stir the thawed peas into the sauce and heat through.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce, then serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions when cooking the sausage. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or omit it entirely. For a twist, try adding spinach or kale along with the peas. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, like a simple Italian salad, for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rigatoni Alla Buttera with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan on top and a side of crusty garlic bread for a satisfying meal. A light green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the richness of the dish. For an Italian-inspired dinner, pair it with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti, to elevate the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rigatoni Alla Buttera contains roughly 394 calories, with 34g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), protein (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1066mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match sausages according to your preference. Try using turkey sausage for a lighter dish or a spicy chorizo for a kick. Just ensure that the total weight remains around 2 pounds for proper sauce consistency.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure any creamy elements are dairy-free if needed. Adjust seasonings to enhance flavor.
Can I freeze Rigatoni Alla Buttera?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add a bit of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).