Name: Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut Squash Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz Rigatoni Pasta; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 lb Spicy Italian Sausage; 1 medium Onion; 3 cloves Garlic; 2 cups Butternut Squash; 1 tsp Dried Thyme; 1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1 cup Parmesan Cheese; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley

Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut is a delightful dish that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of the sauce with the subtle sweetness of butternut squash, creating a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings. The addition of spicy sausage elevates the flavors, making it a satisfying option for dinner gatherings or a cozy night in. With a preparation time of just 45 minutes, it’s an easy yet impressive dish to whip up.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut

This creamy butternut pasta dish has numerous benefits that will make it a staple in your kitchen. First, it’s a wonderful source of nutrients, thanks to the butternut squash, which is rich in vitamins A and C. Additionally, the hearty rigatoni offers a satisfying texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce. The dish is also versatile; you can easily transform it into a vegetarian creamy rigatoni dish by omitting the sausage. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal vegetables into your meals. You’ll find that this delicious butternut rigatoni dish not only warms you up but also fills you with joy and comfort.

Ingredients for Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut

Gather these items:

12 oz Rigatoni Pasta
2 tbsp Olive Oil
1 lb Spicy Italian Sausage
1 medium Onion
3 cloves Garlic
2 cups Butternut Squash
1 tsp Dried Thyme
1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
1 cup Heavy Cream
1 cup Parmesan Cheese
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley

How to Make Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Just before draining, reserve a cup of the pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in olive oil. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally for even browning. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Next, add the cubed butternut squash, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then stir well. Cook the mixture for about 8-10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Allow the cream to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
Step 6: Return the cooked sausage back into the skillet, stirring to incorporate it into the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure each piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, folding it into the mixture until melted and well combined.
Step 8: Taste the creamy rigatoni and adjust salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut

Keep these in mind:

Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste.
Opt for a milder sausage if desired.
Diced shallots can offer a unique twist.
Fresh garlic is best for flavor.
Frozen butternut squash is an alternative if fresh isn’t available.
Fresh thyme is more potent if you have it.
Adjust red pepper flakes to your preference.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Pecorino is a sharp alternative to Parmesan cheese.
Use kosher salt for best results.
Fresh cracked pepper enhances the flavor.
Basil can serve as a fragrant swap for parsley.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You might enjoy pairing it with roasted seasonal vegetables or a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy flavors. It also works wonderfully as a butternut pasta bake recipe when topped with extra cheese and baked until golden.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut

To store, let the creamy rigatoni cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed. Meal prep has never been easier!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut?

The key to a perfect creamy rigatoni recipe lies in balancing the flavors. Make sure your butternut squash is tender and caramelized, and don’t skimp on seasoning. A splash of pasta water can help adjust the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Can I make Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, cook the rigatoni, combine with the sauce, and heat through for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut?

Ensure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the sauce. Also, remember to reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency, which can make a big difference in the final dish.

Creative Variations of Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut You Can Try

Feeling adventurous? You can try adding spinach for a nutritious boost or swapping out the sausage for grilled chicken. For a vegan version, replace the cream with coconut milk and the cheese with nutritional yeast. Each variation maintains the comforting essence of this creamy autumn rigatoni dish while introducing exciting new flavors.