Easy Rigatoni Turkey Sausage Dinner

Name: Easy Rigatoni Turkey Sausage Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces rigatoni pasta; 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Recipes

Enjoy a delicious and hearty meal with this Easy Rigatoni Turkey Sausage Dinner, perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T23:06:28.274Z

This Easy Rigatoni Turkey Sausage Dinner is a go-to recipe for families looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of savory turkey sausage, rigatoni pasta, and a rich tomato sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for the whole family
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights
Packed with flavor from seasoned turkey sausage and fresh ingredients

      

A Family Favorite

This Easy Rigatoni Turkey Sausage Dinner is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings the family together. The hearty rigatoni and savory turkey sausage create a filling dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It's a great way to introduce a leaner protein option without sacrificing flavor, making it a win-win for health-conscious families.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to serve a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Your family will appreciate the effort, and you’ll enjoy the simplicity.

Flavorful Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the turkey sausage, which is seasoned to perfection and offers a delicious alternative to traditional pork sausage. Combined with fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes, onions, and garlic, each bite is bursting with flavor. The Italian seasoning adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste profile.

Moreover, the addition of fresh basil as a garnish not only elevates the dish visually but also adds a refreshing herbal note. It's these little details that make this recipe not just easy, but impressive enough to serve at gatherings or family dinners.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the best aspects of this rigatoni dinner is its versatility. You can easily swap out the turkey sausage for chicken sausage or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer a vegetarian option. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to boost the nutrition without altering the delightful flavors.

Additionally, this recipe can serve as a base for countless variations. Consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes for heat, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish. The possibilities are endless, which means you can make this dish your own every time you prepare it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Rigatoni Turkey Sausage Dinner:

Ingredients

12 ounces rigatoni pasta
1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Easy Rigatoni Turkey Sausage Dinner:

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.

Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.

Mix with Pasta

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.

Enjoy your hearty meal!

Storage Tips

Leftovers of this Easy Rigatoni Turkey Sausage Dinner can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.

If you're looking to keep it fresh longer, consider freezing individual portions. Simply let the dish cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider serving this rigatoni dish with a side salad or garlic bread. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish. Alternatively, warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any remaining sauce on your plate.

For a drink pairing, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon can complement the flavors beautifully. This way, you can create a delightful dining experience that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with penne or fusilli.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the turkey sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition.