Sometimes, the best meals come from the simplest ingredients, and this Crockpot Italian Sausage Rigatoni is proof of that. With just a handful of pantry staples, a rich, savory sauce, and slow-cooked Italian sausage, this dish is packed with comfort and flavor. The best part? The slow cooker does most of the work, making dinnertime a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this hearty pasta will quickly become a family favorite.
Crockpot Italian Sausage Rigatoni
4
servingsSometimes, the best meals come from the simplest ingredients, and this Crockpot Italian Sausage Rigatoni is proof of that. With just a handful of pantry staples, a rich, savory sauce, and slow-cooked Italian sausage, this dish is packed with comfort and flavor.
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Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
12 oz rigatoni pasta
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Transfer the sausage to the slow cooker and add the diced onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream. Let it continue cooking while you prepare the pasta.
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and stir into the sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
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This Crockpot Italian Sausage Rigatoni is rich, creamy, and full of robust Italian flavors. It’s a no-fuss meal that tastes like it came straight from an Italian kitchen—without spending all day at the stove.