Country-Style Rigatoni Recipe

Immerse yourself in the heartwarming flavors of this Country-Style Rigatoni dish. It's a beautiful blend of Italian sausage, hearty cannellini beans, escarole, and perfectly cooked rigatoni, all melded together in a savory chicken broth. Adding the rich tones of Parmesan creates this ideal comfort dish that's quick to make yet fulfilling.

Photos of Country-Style Rigatoni Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be typical pantry staples. Escarole is a type of endive with broad, slightly curved leaves. It's less bitter than its relatives and is easily found in the fresh produce section of most supermarkets. Cannellini beans are an Italian variety of white beans, known for their creamy texture and nutty flavor. You can find them dried or canned in most grocery stores. If you can't find Italian sausage, feel free to substitute with any other flavorful sausage.

Ingredients for Country-Style Rigatoni

Cooking oil: This is used to brown the sausage and prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Italian sausage: The star of the dish, providing a hearty and flavorful base.

Garlic: Used to flavor the chicken broth.

Chicken broth: The liquid base of the dish that brings together all the flavors.

Escarole: This leafy green adds a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the other ingredients.

Cannellini beans: These beans add a creamy texture and a subtle nutty flavor.

Parmesan: This hard cheese adds a salty, umami flavor.

Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Rigatoni: A tube-shaped pasta that holds the sauce well.

One reader, Frayda Becerra says:

This country-style rigatoni recipe is a game-changer! The combination of Italian sausage, cannellini beans, and escarole creates a hearty and flavorful dish. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to prepare, and the end result is a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family loves. Highly recommended!

Frayda Becerra

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rigatoni

How to cook Italian sausage: Cook the Italian sausage in a large deep frying pan over moderate heat until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
How to simmer escarole: Add the escarole to the pan with garlic and broth, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
How to cook rigatoni: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the rigatoni until just done, about 14 minutes.
How to serve: Toss the cooked rigatoni with the sausage and escarole sauce, and serve with additional parmesan.

How To Make Country-Style Rigatoni Recipe

Soft and filling beans, savory Italian sausages, and bright green escarole all tossed together makes up this country-style rigatoni recipe!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspcooking oil
1lbitalian sausage,mild or hot
3garlic cloves
2cupschicken broth,low sodium
1escarole head
1cupcannellini beans,(from one 15 oz can), canned, drained and rinsed
1cupparmesan,grated
½tspsalt
¼tspfresh ground black pepper
¾lbrigatoni

Instructions

In a large deep frying pan, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the sausage and cook, turning, for about 10 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
Remove. When the sausage is cool enough to handle, cut it into slices.
Put the garlic and the broth in the pan and bring to a simmer. Add the escarole, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. Gently stir in the sausage, beans, Parmesan, salt, and pepper and simmer 1 minute longer.
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the pasta for about 14 minutes until just done. Drain and toss with the sauce.
Serve with additional Parmesan, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1101.98kcal
Fat: 51.81g
Saturated Fat: 19.88g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 22.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.70g
Carbohydrates: 101.50g
Fiber: 10.90g
Sugar: 5.55g
Protein: 55.64g
Cholesterol: 115.06mg
Sodium: 1525.96mg
Calcium: 610.64mg
Potassium: 1582.62mg
Iron: 8.36mg
Vitamin A: 78.34µg
Vitamin C: 3.58mg

Pro Tip for Mastering Country-Style Rigatoni

When cooking the rigatoni, ensure you stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking together. Also, to achieve the perfect 'al dente' texture, start testing the pasta about 2 minutes less than the package instructions. This way, your pasta will be firm and chewy, not soft or mushy, which is an essential aspect of this country-style rigatoni recipe.

Time-Saving Tips for Country-Style Rigatoni Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup, such as this country-style rigatoni, to save time on washing dishes.

Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, use that time to prepare the sauce or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Efficient tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like a food processor or garlic press to expedite the prep work for this recipe.

Quick swaps: Substitute ingredients with pre-cooked or canned options to cut down on cooking time without sacrificing flavor.

Substitute Ingredients For Country-Style Rigatoni Recipe

cooking oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish.
Italian sausage - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef can provide a savory and hearty flavor similar to Italian sausage.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic.
low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a similar depth of flavor and richness to the dish.
escarole - Substitute with kale: Kale can offer a similar texture and slightly bitter flavor to the dish.
cannellini beans - Substitute with great northern beans: Great northern beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor to cannellini beans.
parmesan - Substitute with pecorino: Pecorino cheese can provide a similar salty and nutty flavor to the dish.
rigatoni - Substitute with penne: Penne pasta has a similar shape and texture to rigatoni and can hold the sauce well.

Presentation Tips for Serving Rigatoni

Elevate the plating: When presenting the country-style rigatoni, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the dish, allowing the rigatoni and sausage to be the focal point. Arrange the ingredients thoughtfully, ensuring that each component is visible and inviting.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor to the overall presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish, such as a delicate sprinkling of toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts. This provides a delightful contrast in texture and elevates the overall dining experience.
Focus on balance: Pay attention to the balance of colors and proportions on the plate. Ensure that the rigatoni, sausage, and escarole are harmoniously arranged, creating a visually striking composition.
Emphasize the rustic charm: Embrace the rustic nature of the dish by opting for earthy-toned tableware or serving vessels. This enhances the country-style aesthetic and adds a touch of warmth to the presentation.
Artful drizzling: Consider drizzling a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the rigatoni just before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the rim of the serving dish, ensuring it is clean and free of any spills or smudges. This level of detail reflects professionalism and care in the presentation of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Rigatoni

Large deep frying pan: A large, deep pan with a flat bottom and high sides, used for frying, sautéing, and simmering.
Large pot: A large, deep pot used for boiling pasta or other ingredients.
Cooking oil: A neutral-flavored oil used for cooking at high temperatures, such as vegetable or canola oil.
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Wooden spoon: A sturdy spoon made of wood, used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining foods such as pasta or rinsing vegetables.
Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used to shred or grate ingredients like cheese.
Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces or heating liquids.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush garlic cloves quickly and easily.
Pasta pot: A large, deep pot with a strainer insert designed specifically for cooking pasta.
Serving bowl: A large bowl used for serving the finished dish.
Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used to shred or grate ingredients like cheese.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Rigatoni

Allow the country-style rigatoni to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the leftovers, transfer the cooled rigatoni to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification later on.
When stored properly in the freezer, the country-style rigatoni will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen rigatoni, first thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, transfer the thawed pasta to a saucepan or microwave-safe dish and heat it until it's warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
If you're reheating the rigatoni in the oven, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta and escarole may change slightly after being frozen and reheated, but the flavors will still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Rigatoni

To reheat leftover country-style rigatoni, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and steaming.
For a more even reheating, you can use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover rigatoni to an oven-safe dish and cover it tightly with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is thoroughly heated. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to crisp up slightly.
If you prefer a stovetop method, place the leftover country-style rigatoni in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from sticking. Stir gently and continuously until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is warmed and slightly thickened. If the sauce appears too thick, add more liquid as needed.
For a quick and easy reheating option, you can use a skillet. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover rigatoni to the skillet. Toss the pasta gently to coat it with the oil and distribute the heat evenly. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the country-style rigatoni before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt and black pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavors and freshen up the dish.

Interesting Trivia About Rigatoni Pasta

The country-style rigatoni recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines Italian sausage, escarole, and cannellini beans to create a satisfying meal. This dish is a great way to enjoy a comforting and rustic pasta dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences, making it a popular choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you're a fan of Italian cuisine or simply love a good pasta dish, this country-style rigatoni recipe is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Budget-Friendly Country-Style Rigatoni Recipe

This country-style rigatoni recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as Italian sausage, cannellini beans, and rigatoni, are affordable and readily available. The dish offers a hearty and satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is delightful, earning it a solid 9 out of 10. It's a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on taste or quality, making it a great choice for home-cooked meals.

Is Country-Style Rigatoni Healthy?

The country-style rigatoni recipe, while flavorful and comforting, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients:

Italian sausage is typically high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess
The recipe calls for a cup of Parmesan cheese, adding to the overall saturated fat and sodium content
Escarole is a nutritious leafy green, but it's cooked down in the recipe, potentially losing some of its nutrient value
The recipe lacks a significant source of fiber, which is important for digestive health and satiety

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the Italian sausage for a leaner protein source, such as ground turkey or chicken seasoned with Italian herbs and spices
Reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese used, or opt for a lower-fat alternative like part-skim mozzarella
Increase the amount of escarole or add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Use whole-grain rigatoni to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
Reduce the sodium content by using low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting the added salt to taste
Incorporate heart-healthy fats by drizzling the finished dish with a small amount of extra-virgin olive oil

By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting pasta dish into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your cravings for hearty, Italian-inspired flavors.

Editor's Opinion on This Rigatoni Dish

The country-style rigatoni recipe is a delightful combination of Italian flavors. The use of Italian sausage, escarole, and cannellini beans creates a hearty and satisfying dish. The addition of parmesan adds a rich and savory element, while the cooking process ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully. The wine recommendation of a rustic red from Italy is a perfect complement to the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a comforting and delicious dining experience, perfect for a cozy evening at home.

Enhance Your Country-Style Rigatoni Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Create a delicious garlic bread with a twist by adding roasted garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Roasted Vegetables: Whip up a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with a blend of herbs and olive oil for a perfect accompaniment to the country-style rigatoni.

Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Italian dessert with a creamy tiramisu, layered with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese for a sweet ending to your meal.

Delicious Alternatives to Country-Style Rigatoni

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, rich alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta will leave you wanting more.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dinner with this flavorful mango salsa. The sweet and tangy salsa pairs perfectly with juicy grilled chicken for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup. The creamy texture and earthy flavor of the squash, combined with aromatic spices, make this soup a perfect starter or light meal.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in a sweet and fruity berry cobbler for dessert. The combination of juicy berries and a buttery, golden crust is a delightful way to end any meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Country-Style Rigatoni

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are a delicious way to start any meal. The combination of tender zucchini, savory Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic makes for a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a savory meal.

Apple Pie: Enjoy a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Serve it a la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting and delicious dessert.

Why trust this Country-Style Rigatoni Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious and hearty Italian sausage and rigatoni dish that brings together classic flavors in a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of savory Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, and tender cannellini beans creates a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the al dente rigatoni. The addition of escarole adds a touch of freshness and a pleasant bitterness, while the Parmesan cheese lends a creamy and nutty finish. Trust in the traditional ingredients and simple preparation to deliver a truly authentic and enjoyable dining experience.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Country-Style Rigatoni recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as spicy Italian sausage or chicken sausage. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Can I substitute the escarole with a different type of green?

Absolutely! You can substitute the escarole with spinach, kale, or Swiss chard. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the greens you choose.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Of course! While rigatoni works well with this recipe, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or omitting the sausage altogether and adding more vegetables and beans for a hearty and flavorful dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish reheats beautifully, so you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to enjoy. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.