Creamy Sausage Rigatoni
A rich and hearty one-pan pasta dish made easily in the air fryer! Perfect for a quick, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
8 oz rigatoni pasta (cooked al dente)
½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 cup marinara sauce
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
¼ cup fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Sausage: In an air fryer-safe baking dish, add olive oil and crumble the sausage. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, stirring halfway, until browned.
Add Sauce & Pasta: Mix in marinara sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir in the cooked rigatoni and cherry tomatoes.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Bake in Air Fryer: Cook for 6-8 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serve: Let rest for 2 minutes, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy!
Tips & Variations:
No Air Fryer Dish? Use aluminum foil to create a makeshift pan.
Want More Creaminess? Add an extra ¼ cup of cream or mix in cream cheese.
Make It Lighter – Use turkey sausage & half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Creamy Sausage Rigatoni in the Air Fryer
Use Al Dente Pasta – Since the pasta will cook more in the air fryer, slightly undercook it before mixing with the sauce.
Pre-Cook the Sausage Well – Ensure the sausage is fully browned before adding the sauce for the best flavor.
Layer for the Best Texture – Mix everything well, but add the cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust.
Add a Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for extra texture.
Customize the Sauce – Swap marinara for vodka sauce, Alfredo, or a mix of both for different flavors.
Make It Spicy – Use spicy Italian sausage and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
(Approximate values; may vary based on ingredients used.)
Calories: ~480-520 kcal
Protein: ~22g
Carbs: ~45g
Fats: ~25g
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~700mg
Make It Lighter:
Use turkey or chicken sausage to reduce fat.
swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light cream for fewer calories.
Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.