Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni
Savory Sausage and Kale Rigatoni is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together perfectly cooked rigatoni, tender Italian sausage, and vibrant kale in a luscious sauce. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, delivering bold flavors that even the pickiest eaters will love. With its colorful ingredients and satisfying textures, this dish promises an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy it hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet)
- 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Crumble in the sausage and cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted (3-5 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet along with Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine, adding reserved pasta water if necessary for creaminess. Serve hot with extra cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 330g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute kale with spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of water.