Irresistible Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni Recipe

Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni combines hearty flavors and comforting textures that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine twirling forkfuls of tender rigatoni enveloped in a rich, savory sauce, while the earthy kale adds a delightful crunch and nutrition. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!

Now, picture this: you’ve had a long day, and the couch is calling your name. All you need is a bowl of this delicious rigatoni to elevate your evening. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress friends at a casual gathering. Trust me; the aroma alone will make them swoon with anticipation.

Ingredients for Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rigatoni Pasta: About 12 ounces of rigatoni makes the ideal base for this dish; it holds sauce well thanks to its ridges.

• Italian Sausage: Use about 1 pound of spicy or mild Italian sausage based on your flavor preference; it’s the star protein!

• Kale: Roughly 4 cups of chopped kale gives great texture and nutrients; opt for fresh leaves over frozen.

• Garlic: You’ll need about 4 cloves of minced garlic for that aromatic kick; fresh garlic always wins over pre-minced.

• Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness; I prefer yellow onions for their balanced flavor.

For the Sauce:

• Canned Diced Tomatoes: One can (about 14 ounces) provides acidity and body to the sauce; fire-roasted varieties add extra flavor.

• Olive Oil: About 2 tablespoons are needed for sautéing; go for high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate about half a cup for garnishing; fresh cheese melts beautifully into the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Crumble the Italian sausage into the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked through—about five minutes.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—this should take about three minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Kale

Stir in the chopped kale until wilted down—approximately two minutes. The vibrant green will brighten up your pan!

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (and juices) along with some reserved pasta water if needed. Stir everything together until well combined. Let simmer for another five minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add drained rigatoni into your skillet mixture. Toss gently until every piece is coated with that savory goodness. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni—it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage in a large pan while boiling water for the rigatoni. Once the sausage is cooked, toss in the kale and garlic, letting them soften as the pasta cooks. Combine everything for a seamless finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sausage for turkey or chicken to lighten the dish. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor or substitute kale with spinach if that’s more your style.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so on low heat on the stovetop; add a splash of broth if it looks dry to keep it creamy.

Sharing my first experience making savory sausage and kale rigatoni brings back fond memories of friends gathered around my table, devouring every last bite with smiles and laughter. It was a hit!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni?

To prepare Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni, gather rigatoni pasta, Italian sausage, fresh kale, garlic, onion, diced tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Olive oil and seasonings like salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes enhance the flavor. This combination creates a hearty dish that delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures. Using fresh ingredients elevates the dish further, making it perfect for any mealtime.

How long does it take to cook Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni?

Cooking Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. Begin by boiling the pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, sauté the sausage with onion and garlic until browned. Adding kale and tomatoes requires an additional few minutes of cooking time. The entire process is quick yet rewarding, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I customize my Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni?

Absolutely! You can personalize Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni based on your taste preferences. Consider using different types of sausage such as chicken or turkey for a lighter version. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. Experimenting with various herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the dish’s flavor profile while keeping it enjoyable for everyone.

Is Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni a healthy option?

Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni offers a balanced blend of nutrients. The kale provides essential vitamins while the sausage contributes protein. By controlling portion sizes and using whole-grain rigatoni rather than regular pasta, you create a healthier meal option. Additionally, incorporating vegetables boosts fiber content, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious for those looking to maintain healthy eating habits.

Conclusion for Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni:

Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with nutrient-packed ingredients. With simple preparation steps that take less than an hour, it makes an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. By customizing the ingredients to suit your preferences, you can create variations that cater to everyone’s tastes. This recipe stands out due to its wholesome nature while remaining deliciously satisfying—perfect for family gatherings or solo dinners alike!

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Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni is a comforting pasta dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage and the nutritional benefits of kale. Tossed with tender rigatoni in a savory tomato sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. With its delightful aroma and satisfying textures, it’s bound to be a hit at your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
• 4 cups chopped fresh kale
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the rigatoni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add crumbled sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
4. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, approximately 2 minutes.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes along with some reserved pasta water if needed. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Combine the drained rigatoni with the skillet mixture, tossing gently to coat. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 60mg