Easy Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that comes together in no time, this Easy Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini is a perfect choice. Bursting with savory sausage, sweet tomatoes, and tender zucchini, this pasta recipe offers a vibrant combination of textures and tastes that makes for a comforting weeknight dinner in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish balances simplicity and freshness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy and Simple: Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.
• Balanced Ingredients: The combination of sausage, fresh vegetables, and rigatoni creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture.
• Flexible Meal: Easily adaptable to your pantry and dietary preferences, making it a versatile go-to recipe.
• Nutrition Boost: Adding zucchini and tomatoes gives you extra vitamins and fiber without extra fuss.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed when you use a single skillet for cooking the sauce and sausage.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini recipe are straightforward but essential, offering rich flavors and vibrant colors that bring the dish together beautifully.

• Rigatoni Pasta: The ridges and tubes hold on to the sauce perfectly for every bite.
• Italian Sausage: Ground sausage delivers a meaty, savory base with plenty of seasoning.
• Cherry Tomatoes: They burst with natural sweetness and add a juicy texture.
• Zucchini: Adds mild freshness and a tender crunch that complements the sausage.
• Garlic: Provides a fragrant depth that elevates the entire dish.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and enriching the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish when sprinkled on top.
• Fresh Basil: Supplies an aromatic, herby lift at the end.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a little heat for those who love a kick.

Variations for Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini

Feel free to customize this dish to fit your taste buds or dietary requirements—this recipe is versatile and easy to tweak with whatever you have on hand.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap sausage for hearty mushrooms or a plant-based alternative for a meatless meal.
• Spicy Twist: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
• Cheese Variations: Try ricotta or mozzarella for a creamy texture instead of parmesan.
• Different Veggies: Substitute or add bell peppers, spinach, or eggplant for extra color and nutrients.
• Whole Wheat Rigatoni: Use whole grain pasta for a fiber-rich, heartier base.

How to Make Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for the sauce, which helps bring everything together.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add minced garlic, sliced zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the sausage in the pan. Cook until the zucchini is tender and tomatoes have softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors well.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Lower the heat, then toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with sausage and vegetables. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help bind the sauce, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This final step adds brightness and a cheesy finish to the dish before serving warm.

Pro Tips for Making Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini

• Use Quality Sausage: A flavorful Italian sausage makes a huge difference in the overall taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: Keep it slightly firm for the best texture contrast.
• Reserve Pasta Water: It’s starchy and perfect for loosening the sauce without diluting flavors.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Basil added at the end retains its bright, fresh notes.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents mushiness and helps the pasta hold the sauce better.
• Sear Sausage Properly: Browning develops deep flavors you won’t get from boiling or steaming.

How to Serve Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini

Garnishes

Finish with freshly grated parmesan, torn basil leaves, and an optional drizzle of good olive oil to boost flavor and presentation appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad with vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in colorful bowls for a vibrant look, or transfer to a large serving platter for casual family-style dining that invites sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep the pasta moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?

Absolutely, ground turkey is a leaner alternative; just add extra spices to mimic the robust flavor of Italian sausage.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute rigatoni with your favorite gluten-free pasta; the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance, then combine and reheat just before serving for convenience.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Dried basil or other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano are great substitutes and still add wonderful aroma and flavor.

Can I add cream or cheese sauce to this recipe?

You can add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta to make the dish richer and creamier if you prefer a decadently smooth sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini is a delightful dish filled with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors that come together quickly for your busy weeknights. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable—making it one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your rotation for sure. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen!

Related Posts

• Why Baked Mississippi Chicken Is a Must-Try Dish
• Why Aloha Grilled Pineapple Chicken is a Must-Try
• Why Creamy Sausage Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers Is a Must-Try

Print