Grilled Sausage Riggies: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Pasta You Can Make Outdoors

Introduction

Grilled Sausage Riggies bring together two unbeatable comforts: flame‑kissed sausage and a silky, spicy tomato cream sauce. Inspired by the beloved Central New York classic, this outdoor‑friendly version amplifies the flavor with charred peppers, rich aromatics, and hearty rigatoni that clings beautifully to every drop of sauce. It’s the perfect dish for anyone craving a smoky twist on a traditional Italian‑American favorite. Whether you’re cooking over an Arteflame grill or any flat-top surface, this pasta delivers depth, heat, and irresistible comfort.

Easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, this recipe captures the essence of outdoor cooking while keeping prep simple and rewarding.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 1 pound rigatoni
• Salt for boiling pasta

For the Sauce

• 1 pound Italian sausage links
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup hot cherry peppers, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package directions.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2:

1. Preheat your grill or flat‑top surface.
2. Place the sausage on the grill and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
3. Slice the grilled sausage into bite‑size pieces and set aside.

Step 3:

1. Heat olive oil on the grill surface or pan.
2. Add onions, garlic, cherry peppers, and bell peppers.
3. Sauté until softened and lightly charred.

Step 4:

1. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce becomes rich and smooth.
3. Add the sliced sausage and simmer for several minutes.

Step 5:

1. Add the cooked rigatoni directly into the sauce.
2. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
3. Finish with fresh basil and Parmesan before serving.

Tips

This dish thrives on bold, layered flavors, so don’t hesitate to char the peppers well—they add depth and a subtle smokiness to the creamy tomato base. Using high‑quality sausage is key, as it infuses the sauce with seasoned drippings and extra richness. If your sauce feels too thick, a splash of pasta water brings everything back into balance without diluting flavor. For outdoor cooking, keep ingredients pre‑chopped and in heat‑safe containers to speed up the process. A sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving helps pull the final flavors together.

Variations

Grilled Sausage Riggies are wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you prefer extra heat, more vegetables, or a lighter version, small swaps can transform the overall character while maintaining the spirit of the original recipe.

• Use chicken sausage for a leaner option.
• Add mushrooms or zucchini for more vegetables.
• Swap heavy cream for half‑and‑half for a lighter sauce.
• Use sweet peppers instead of hot for a milder flavor.
• Add crushed red pepper for extra heat.

Best pairings

This creamy, smoky pasta pairs beautifully with fresh, vibrant sides that balance richness. Bright salads and crisp wines provide contrast, while warm bread helps soak up every drop of sauce. Whether you’re serving this at a gathering or a weeknight meal, the right pairing enhances both flavor and comfort.

• Garlic bread or artisan sourdough
• Mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette
• Grilled asparagus or broccoli
• Chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• Light Italian pilsner

Conclusion

Grilled Sausage Riggies take a beloved comfort dish and elevate it with outdoor‑grilled flavor, creamy heat, and satisfying textures. This version is simple enough for casual backyard meals yet special enough for entertaining. With its smoky sausage, spicy peppers, and velvety sauce, every bite delivers bold, memorable taste.

Whether you serve it alongside fresh salads, warm bread, or crisp drinks, this pasta brings warmth and comfort to any gathering—and might just become your new signature outdoor dish.