today show recipe sausage and pear rigatoni

3 min read 21-01-2025

today show recipe sausage and pear rigatoni

Meta Description: Craving a comforting and delicious pasta dish? This Today Show Sausage and Pear Rigatoni recipe combines sweet pears, savory sausage, and creamy parmesan for a fall-inspired meal that's sure to impress. Get the easy-to-follow recipe and elevate your weeknight dinner!

Introduction: A Taste of Autumn

The Today Show is known for its delightful recipes, and this Sausage and Pear Rigatoni is no exception. This pasta dish perfectly captures the essence of fall with a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. Imagine tender rigatoni coated in a creamy sauce, punctuated by the sweetness of pears and the richness of Italian sausage. It's a comforting meal that's perfect for a chilly evening. Let's dive into this delicious recipe that's sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients: Gather Your Autumnal Bounty

Before we begin, let's gather all the necessary ingredients. This recipe is surprisingly simple, using ingredients readily available at your local grocery store. Here's what you'll need:

1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!)
2 ripe but firm pears, cored and diced
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 pound rigatoni pasta
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh sage leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Pasta Perfection

This recipe is designed for ease and efficiency. Even beginner cooks can master this delicious dish. Let's get cooking!

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from its casings and crumble it into the skillet. Brown the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's cooked through and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Add the diced pears to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, until it has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the rigatoni according to package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked rigatoni and the browned sausage to the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh sage leaves (if using).

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Dish

Spice it up: Use spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
Vegetarian option: Substitute the sausage with mushrooms or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Different Pears: Experiment with different pear varieties for variations in sweetness and texture. Anjou or Bosc pears work well.
Cheese Options: Try using other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving for best results.

Q: What kind of sausage is best for this recipe?

A: Sweet or spicy Italian sausage both work well. Choose your preference based on your spice tolerance.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: While rigatoni is recommended, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli.

Conclusion: A Perfect Fall Pasta Dish

This Today Show Sausage and Pear Rigatoni recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet pears, savory sausage, and creamy Parmesan creates a symphony of flavors that's both comforting and sophisticated. It's a perfect weeknight meal that’s easy to make and impressive to serve. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a taste of autumn! Let me know in the comments how your version turns out!