Creamy Roasted Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni Recipe: A Decadent Weeknight Favorite

Looking for the perfect comforting pasta dish for those cozy weeknights? This Creamy Roasted Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni has it all! It's rich, flavorful, and super easy to make. The luscious Alfredo sauce, infused with the sweet flavor of roasted garlic, perfectly coats the rigatoni, while the savory Italian sausage adds a hearty bite. Top it off with fresh parsley, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and elegant.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

This recipe became one of my favorites when I needed a quick but satisfying dinner after a long day. The way the creamy sauce wraps around the rigatoni, combined with the savory sausage and the deep, mellow flavor of roasted garlic, makes it absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress!

I originally found this fantastic recipe on the Recipes by Lisa Facebook Page, and I'm so excited to share it with you all.

Origins and Fun Fact

Alfredo pasta originates from Italy, but over time, it has evolved into the creamy version we love in America today. Traditionally, Alfredo sauce was made with just butter and Parmesan. However, this version includes heavy cream, making it richer and creamier, and the addition of roasted garlic adds a layer of deep, sweet flavor that makes this dish unique.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 1 head of garlic, roasted
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Roast the Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head, drizzle it with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30-35 minutes until it’s soft and fragrant. Once cooled, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out and mash them.
2. Cook the Rigatoni: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rigatoni until it's al dente, as per the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it browns. Once fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mashed roasted garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add Parmesan and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the Dish: Add the cooked rigatoni and browned sausage to the skillet, stirring everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tip:

Roasting garlic brings out its sweet, mellow flavors, making this Alfredo sauce extra special. It pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the sauce and the savory sausage.

Variations and Customizations:

• For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Gluten-free pasta works just as well in this dish, and you can use plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.

Pairing Suggestions:

Serve this Creamy Roasted Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic bread to complete the meal. A glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay will enhance the creamy richness of the sauce beautifully.

If you loved this recipe, don't forget to follow me for more delicious and easy-to-make dishes! Feel free to leave a comment or share the recipe with your friends – I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!