Experience the rich flavors of Italy with our Authentic Italian Sausage Ragu with Rigatoni Pasta recipe. This dish is a perfect symphony of hearty sausage ragu served with al dente rigatoni, offering an indulgent meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Our comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide dives into the nuances of traditional Italian cooking, ensuring an authentic experience right from your kitchen. Ideal for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe will transport you to the heart of Italy with every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Preparation Method
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and crumbled. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Deglaze and Simmer Ragu:
- Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
- Simmer the ragu over low heat for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water.
- Combine Pasta and Ragu:
- Add the cooked pasta to the ragu, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve with Garnishes:
- Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Conclusion
Our Authentic Italian Sausage Ragu with Rigatoni Pasta recipe is a testament to the simplicity and richness of Italian cuisine. The robust flavors of the sausage ragu combined with the perfectly cooked rigatoni make this dish a comforting and fulfilling meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing a taste of Italy to your dining table.