Homemade Olive Garden Rigatoni: A Quick and Flavorful Pasta Recipe

If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s hearty and flavorful pasta dishes, you’re going to love this homemade Olive Garden Rigatoni recipe.

This dish features tender rigatoni pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce, layered with cheese, and packed with Italian-inspired flavors.

Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or looking to impress guests, this recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen.

Not only does this copycat recipe taste just like the original, but it also gives you full control over ingredients—allowing you to customize flavors, adjust seasoning, and even add your favorite protein.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering, comforting dish that rivals any Italian restaurant’s pasta.

So, let’s dive in and recreate this Olive Garden classic in the comfort of your own home!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Olive Garden Rigatoni Recipe

1. Authentic Restaurant-Quality Taste

This recipe captures the rich and creamy flavors that make Olive Garden’s rigatoni so irresistible. The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and a velvety sauce ensures every bite is bursting with savory goodness.

2. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

No need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. This dish comes together with pantry staples like pasta, cream, cheese, and seasonings, making it perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal.

3. Budget-Friendly Alternative

Why spend money dining out when you can recreate this classic at home for a fraction of the cost? You’ll get the same delicious flavors without the restaurant price tag.

4. Fully Customizable to Your Taste

Love extra cheese? Want to add chicken, shrimp, or sausage? Prefer a spicier kick? This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it to match your personal preferences.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a weekend indulgence, or a meal to impress friends and family, this rigatoni recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for the ultimate Italian-inspired feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To recreate this Olive Garden Rigatoni recipe, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. These will help achieve the rich, creamy texture and authentic Italian taste that make this dish so irresistible.

Pasta & Sauce

• Rigatoni pasta (12 oz) – The tube-shaped pasta holds the sauce beautifully, creating a perfect bite every time.
• Heavy cream (1 cup) – Adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated) – Provides a sharp, nutty flavor and enhances the creamy sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded) – For that gooey, melty finish.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Brings a bold, aromatic depth to the dish.
• Butter (2 tbsp) – Helps sauté the garlic and adds richness.
• Chicken broth (½ cup) – Enhances the flavor and thins out the sauce slightly.
• Italian seasoning (1 tsp) – A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary for an authentic taste.
• Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp, optional) – Adds a subtle heat for those who enjoy a little spice.
• Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Essential for balancing flavors.

Optional Add-Ins

• Chicken (1 lb, cooked and sliced) – A great protein addition for a heartier meal.
• Italian sausage (½ lb, cooked and crumbled) – Adds a robust, savory element.
• Spinach (1 cup, chopped) – A nutritious way to add greens to the dish.
• Sun-dried tomatoes (¼ cup, chopped) – For a tangy, slightly sweet contrast.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to making this delicious pasta dish step by step!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Olive Garden Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni to Perfection

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
3. Drain the pasta and set aside. To prevent sticking, toss it with a teaspoon of olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
4. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
5. Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
6. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add Protein (If Using)

1. If you’re adding chicken or sausage, cook it separately in a pan over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
2. Once done, slice or crumble the protein and stir it into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake (Optional)

1. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Serve warm with garlic bread and a crisp salad for the full Olive Garden experience!

Tips for Making the Best Olive Garden-Style Rigatoni

To ensure your homemade Olive Garden Rigatoni is as delicious as the restaurant version (or even better!), keep these tips in mind:

1. Cook the Pasta Just Right

• Always cook rigatoni al dente (firm to the bite) for the best texture. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold the sauce as well.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining—it can help loosen the sauce if needed.

2. Use High-Quality Ingredients

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better than pre-packaged varieties.
• If possible, use real butter and fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• For an extra creamy sauce, opt for heavy cream rather than milk or half-and-half.

3. Balance the Sauce Consistency

• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to thin it out.
• If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken naturally or add extra cheese.

4. Customize to Your Taste

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a protein boost.
• Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth and nutrients.
• Love a spicy kick? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

5. Bake for a Golden, Cheesy Finish

• While the dish is delicious right from the stovetop, baking it for 10 minutes with a layer of mozzarella creates a bubbly, golden top that adds an extra level of indulgence.

6. Make It Ahead & Store Properly

• This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.
• If freezing, avoid adding too much cheese on top beforehand—it’s best to add fresh cheese when reheating.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Olive Garden-inspired rigatoni is already a comforting and satisfying dish, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even more.

Here are some delicious options:

1. Classic Garlic Bread

• A warm, crispy loaf of garlic bread or buttery breadsticks is a must-have. The crunchy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.

2. Fresh Garden Salad

• Balance the richness of the dish with a light and refreshing salad, just like they serve at Olive Garden. A simple mix of romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onions, black olives, and pepperoncini, topped with an Italian dressing, is a perfect match.

3. Roasted Vegetables

• Oven-roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers add color, flavor, and a touch of sweetness that complements the creamy pasta.

4. Antipasto Platter

• If you’re serving this dish for a special occasion, start with an antipasto platter featuring cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated artichokes for a true Italian-inspired experience.

5. Wine & Beverage Pairings

• For wine lovers: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, while a Chianti or Merlot works well if you add a tomato-based component.
• For non-alcoholic options: A refreshing sparkling lemonade, iced tea, or Italian soda makes a great accompaniment.

Final Thoughts

Recreating Olive Garden’s Rigatoni at home is easier than you think, and the result is just as satisfying—if not better—than dining out.

This dish brings together perfectly cooked pasta, a rich and creamy sauce, and plenty of cheesy goodness for an indulgent and comforting meal.

The best part? You can customize it to fit your preferences, whether by adding protein, veggies, or a bit of heat.

Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that stores well for leftovers, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

So, next time you’re craving a cozy, restaurant-quality pasta dish, skip the reservation and try this homemade Olive Garden Rigatoni recipe instead. You’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious it is!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then mix them together when ready to serve. If making the whole dish in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a little broth or cream to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply skip the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, whole milk, or a combination of milk and cream cheese. If you need a dairy-free version, try unsweetened coconut milk or cashew cream.

5. Can I freeze this pasta dish?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the sauce and pasta separately to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft. If freezing the entire dish, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a little extra liquid to bring back the creamy texture.