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Hearty Tomato Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Hearty Tomato Rigatoni Pasta Recipe


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4.8 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sumptuous creamy tomato rigatoni pasta delivers Italian comfort with rich, silky sauce and hearty pasta. Parmesan cheese and fresh basil elevate this simple yet sophisticated dish you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Cheese:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) rigatoni pasta
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces/400 grams) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup (15 grams) fresh basil, chopped

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Boil rigatoni in salted water at high heat for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain thoroughly and reserve.
  2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium temperature, gently sautéing onions until translucent and softened.
  3. Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, stirring quickly for approximately 30 seconds to release aromatic flavors without burning.
  4. Incorporate crushed tomatoes, sprinkle oregano, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, then allow sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, developing rich, deep flavors.
  5. Reduce heat to low and gently blend heavy cream and butter into the tomato mixture, creating a smooth, velvety consistency.
  6. Carefully fold cooked rigatoni into the creamy tomato sauce, ensuring each pasta tube is evenly coated with the luxurious sauce.
  7. Finish the dish by folding in grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil, which will add depth and brightness to the final preparation.
  8. Transfer to serving plates immediately, optionally garnishing with additional Parmesan and basil leaves for enhanced presentation and flavor.

Notes

  • Perfectly time pasta cooking to maintain al dente texture, avoiding mushy consistency.
  • Choose high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for richer, more authentic flavor profile.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal spice tolerance, ranging from mild to fiery kick.
  • Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for lighter, dairy-free alternative.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 342 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 370 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg