Description
This Best Creamy Tomato Rigatoni recipe combines al dente rigatoni pasta with a rich, flavorful tomato cream sauce, infused with garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese for a comforting Italian main course that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop flavors.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted and combined.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.
- Finish with Fresh Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and cook for an additional minute to meld the flavors. Serve the creamy tomato rigatoni warm, with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use San Marzano tomatoes for a richer and more authentic tomato flavor.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter cream sauce if preferred.
- Add cooked Italian sausage or chicken for a heartier meal.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the dish.
