Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new weeknight hero: Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini. This comforting Italian-inspired dish is loaded with juicy sausage, bursting grape tomatoes, tender zucchini, and a touch of spice, all wrapped up in perfectly al dente rigatoni. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s hearty, vibrant, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini is how achievable it is with everyday ingredients that truly shine together. Every component has a special job here—think color from the veggies, depth from the sausage, and that classic Italian flair from herbs and cheese.

• Rigatoni pasta: Its ridges and shape perfectly cling to the savory sauce, delivering bursts of flavor in every bite.
• Italian sausage: Choose mild, sweet, or spicy to match your taste; each brings a rich heartiness and seasoning to the dish.
• Olive oil: A good olive oil helps everything meld together and prevents sticking during sautéing.
• Yellow onion: Finely chopped onion creates a sweet, flavorful base for the sauce.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Use for a gentle heat that’s totally adjustable.
• Garlic: Five cloves mean that garlicky warmth sings through the sauce without overwhelming.
• Tomato paste: Adds richness and deepens the tomato flavor, making the sauce glossy and robust.
• Grape tomatoes: These little gems burst into brightness as they cook, setting the tone for the dish.
• White wine or chicken broth: Either will deglaze the pan for extra depth—wine gives a slightly tangy note, broth keeps it savory.
• Zucchini: Diced small, it cooks quickly and adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
• Salt & black pepper: Seasoning essentials for balancing all the flavors.
• Fresh basil: Chopped basil brings an herby lift at the very end—don’t skip it.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For serving; it melts into silky, salty ribbons atop your pasta.

Variations

Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini is seriously adaptable! Whether you need a swap for allergies, want to dial up the veggies, or just feel like switching things up, there’s plenty of room for creativity without losing that craveable Italian vibe.

• Chicken or turkey sausage: Swap out the classic Italian sausage for a lighter but equally hearty twist.
• Gluten-free or whole wheat pasta: These alternatives work beautifully if you need a different pasta base.
• Extra veggies: Toss in baby spinach, chopped bell peppers, or mushrooms for more color and nutrition.
• Vegan version: Use a plant-based sausage and omit the cheese or choose a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

How to Make Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large, wide pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and (if you’re feeling bold) a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté until the onion is soft and golden, about 10 minutes, then crumble in the sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned and no pink remains. Your kitchen will smell amazing right about now!

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the sausage and cook until just fragrant—about 1 minute. Stir in the tomato paste so it coats the sausage, then toss in the grape tomatoes and pour over the wine (or broth). Season everything with salt and pepper. Let this simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes; the tomatoes will burst and create a lovely, chunky sauce. Use a wooden spoon to help along any stubborn tomatoes.

Step 3: Add Zucchini and Boil Pasta

Stir in your diced zucchini and let it cook for 5 minutes—just enough to soften while keeping a little bite. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente (about 9–10 minutes). Reserve about half a cup of that magical starchy pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Toss It All Together

Add the hot, drained rigatoni straight into the sauce pot and toss everything together. Use some reserved pasta water if needed for a silky finish. Stir in the fresh chopped basil right at the end so its flavor stays bright and herby.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the rigatoni with sausage, tomatoes, and zucchini into bowls, shower generously with freshly grated Parmesan, and serve piping hot. Dinner’s ready—grab your forks!

How to Serve Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

Garnishes

A finishing flourish makes all the difference! Sprinkle each bowl with extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few extra ribbons of basil. For a touch of heat and color, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil is pure chef’s kiss.

Side Dishes

This lively pasta shines alongside warm, crusty Italian bread—perfect for swiping up every last drop of sauce. A simple green salad or garlicky roasted broccoli balances out the richness, while a glass of dry white wine brings everything together for a true Italian moment.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve your rigatoni with sausage, tomatoes, and zucchini in shallow pasta bowls with colorful basil sprigs and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Or, for a cozy family-style gathering, pile it high on a big platter, showering with Parmesan right at the table so everyone gets in on the fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making for a savory, saucy next-day lunch you’ll look forward to!

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well—just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, and don’t forget to label with the date for easy meal planning.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally and heat until piping hot, then finish with a fresh sprinkle of cheese and basil to brighten it up.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a vibrant, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug, Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini is calling your name. It’s a dish packed with rustic charm, family-friendly flavors, and just enough Italian flair to make any night special. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new staple, too!

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