1-First Step: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Once it’s warm, sauté the 1 large diced onion for 7 to 8 minutes until it softens. For vegan versions, skip the sausage at this stage and add plant-based options later. This step builds flavor without much effort, setting the base for your creamy rigatoni.

2-Second Step: Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 1/2 pounds of Italian sausage to the pot; cook for another 7 to 8 minutes until the sausage starts to brown. If you’re going gluten-free, ensure your sausage is certified. This browning process enhances the meat’s taste, making your creamy rigatoni even more delicious.

3-Third Step: In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous amount of salt. Cook the 1 pound of rigatoni pasta according to package instructions, aiming for al dente texture. For low-calorie adaptations, use whole wheat pasta to add fiber. Remember, the pasta absorbs the creamy sauce well, so don’t overcook it.

4-Fourth Step: Add the two 28-ounce cans of tomatoes to the sausage mixture; if using whole tomatoes, blend them smooth first. Stir in the 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil (or 1 tablespoon dried), 1/4 cup fresh chopped oregano (or 1 tablespoon dried), 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes. Here, you can adjust for dietary needs, like using low-sodium salt for a lighter version of creamy rigatoni.

5-Fifth Step: Mix in the 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, then lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 5 more minutes. For vegan swaps, use coconut milk and vegan cheese to keep that creamy consistency. This is where your creamy rigatoni gets its signature silkiness.

6-Sixth Step: Drain the pasta and combine it with the sauce in the pot. If you want a less saucy dish, let it simmer together for an additional 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more herbs for flavor tweaks. Finally, serve garnished with the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. This step is perfect for customizing your creamy rigatoni to everyone’s preferences.