Rigatoni with Sausage and Kale: The Perfect Date Night Pasta Recipe
HELLO to March, the season of cold nights, cozy meals, and, of course, Self-Love! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a delicious, hearty meal, rigatoni with sausage and kale is the ultimate comfort food.
This creamy, flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine, setting the perfect mood for a romantic dinner.
Why Rigatoni is the Ultimate Pasta Choice
There’s something undeniably satisfying about rigatoni. The chewy texture and thick tubes hold the sauce exceptionally well, ensuring every bite is rich and indulgent. But what truly makes this dish stand out?
- Savory browned sausage adds a deep, hearty flavor.
- Sautéed kale brings a nutritious balance to the dish.
- A rich tomato cream sauce coats every piece of pasta beautifully.
- Crushed fennel seeds and garlic infuse a restaurant-quality aroma and taste.
- A touch of red pepper flakes and Parmesan enhances the flavors to perfection.
Whether it’s a special date night or just a cozy evening, this rigatoni with sausage and kale guarantees satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. rigatoni, cooked to al dente
- 2 cups reserved pasta water
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups chopped fennel or celery
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 1 lb. ground mild Italian sausage
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fennel seeds, crushed
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Rigatoni
Cook the rigatoni in well-salted water according to package instructions. Once done, reserve 2 cups of the starchy water before draining. This helps create a silky-smooth sauce later.
2. Prepare the Sausage and Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped fennel (or celery) and onion. Sauté until soft, about 10 minutes. Add the sausage, breaking it apart as it browns evenly.
3. Build the Sauce
Reduce the heat slightly and add garlic, fennel seeds, and tomato paste. Stir until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and let it reduce. Stir in heavy cream and kale, allowing everything to simmer until the sauce thickens.
4. Bring It All Together
Toss the rigatoni with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the perfect consistency. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and finish with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes. Pair it with a glass of wine and enjoy a perfect date night meal.
What to Serve with Rigatoni
For an even more delightful meal, pair this creamy sausage and kale rigatoni with:
- Crusty No-Knead Bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Parmesan Kale Salad – A fresh and flavorful side.
- Salted Caramel Brownies – The perfect sweet ending.
FAQs
Can I make this without fennel?
Yes! Substitute it with celery for a milder taste.
What kind of Italian sausage works best?
Mild or spicy Italian sausage both work. Choose based on your preference.
Can I use another protein instead of sausage?
Yes! Shrimp or scallops are great alternatives.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it before adding the pasta.