HERITAGE RED WATTLE PORK, GROUND ITALIAN SAUSAGE

Here’s a delicious recipe that uses Heritage Red Wattle Ground Italian Sausage to create a hearty and flavorful pasta dish:

Heritage Red Wattle Sausage Rigatoni in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 lb rigatoni (or other short pasta like penne or ziti)
• 1 lb ground Heritage Red Wattle Italian sausage 
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or use half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.

2. Brown the Sausage:

   • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the ground Heritage Red Wattle Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until browned and cooked through.
   • Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Make the Sauce:

   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add the Cream:

   • Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to become creamy and rich.
   • Add the browned sausage back into the sauce, and stir to combine.

6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

   • Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
   • If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, to loosen it up.

7. Finish with Parmesan:

   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined with the sauce. This adds extra richness and depth to the dish.

8. Serve:

   • Serve the rigatoni topped with more Parmesan cheese and a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped basil.

Optional Additions:

• Vegetables: Add spinach or kale to the sauce for added nutrients.
• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for a heartier dish.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or drizzle some Calabrian chili oil before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese for a traditional Italian touch.

This dish showcases the bold and savory flavors of Heritage Red Wattle Italian sausage in a creamy, comforting sauce that’s perfect for a cozy night in!