Rigatoni with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe
A classic Italian-American pasta dish featuring hearty rigatoni, savory sausage, and slightly bitter broccoli rabe, all tossed in a light garlic and chili-infused sauce. It's a satisfying and flavorful weeknight dinner ready in about 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat
- a.Once boiling, add 2 tablespoons of salt. Add the trimmed broccoli rabe and blanch for 1-2 minutes until it turns bright green and is slightly tender. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the broccoli rabe to a colander to drain. Once cool enough to handle, roughly chop it into 1-2 inch pieces.
- 2
Return the same pot of water to a boil
- a.Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 10-12 minutes). Before draining, carefully reserve 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta.
- 3
Step 3
- a.While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, using a wooden spoon to break it into bite-sized pieces, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Reduce the heat to medium
- a.Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
- 5
Stir in the chopped, blanched broccoli rabe
- a.Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with the grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the pasta is well-coated and a light, emulsified sauce forms. If the sauce seems too dry, add more reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- 7
Remove from heat
- a.Season with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and the black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't skip salting the pasta water! It's the only chance you have to season the pasta itself.
- 2Blanching the broccoli rabe first not only tenderizes it but also helps to mellow its characteristic bitterness.
- 3The starchy pasta water is essential for creating a silky sauce that clings to the rigatoni. Don't forget to reserve it!
- 4Use high-quality block Parmesan and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
- 5For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) after cooking the garlic and before adding the broccoli rabe.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or 1 can (15 oz) of drained cannellini beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Creamy VersionCreamy Version
For a richer sauce, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese along with the Parmesan in the final step.
Different GreensDifferent Greens
If broccoli rabe is unavailable, you can use Tuscan kale (lacinato), Swiss chard, or even spinach. Adjust blanching time as needed.
Extra FlavorExtra Flavor
Add 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained) along with the garlic for a sweet and tangy flavor boost.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
The Italian sausage and Parmesan cheese provide a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Source of Leafy Greens
Broccoli rabe is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and fiber, which supports digestive health and provides essential antioxidants.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates from the pasta offer a steady release of energy, making this a satisfying and fueling meal.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of Rigatoni with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe contains approximately 750-850 calories, depending on the type of sausage and amount of oil and cheese used.