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Creamy Cajun Sausage Rigatoni Christmas Pasta

Looking for a quick and delicious one-pan lunch recipe? Try this Creamy Cajun Sausage Rigatoni, a perfect vegetarian lunch option that packs a punch with rich flavors and creamy textures. Ideal for busy days, it’s a satisfying meal that will bring warmth to your table. OnePanLunch VegetarianLunch CajunCooking CreamyPasta EasyRecipes HolidayCooking Afterka
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Ingredients
  

12 oz rigatoni pasta

1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

2 tsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

    Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the spicy Italian sausage. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes until the veggies are softened.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet along with the diced tomatoes (with juices), heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

          Thicken the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

            Add Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and stir to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.

              Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm, and if desired, add extra Parmesan cheese on top.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings