Description
This creamy Radiatore Pasta recipe features ridged pasta cooked to al dente and tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce made from garlic, shallots, white wine, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Finished with butter and fresh parsley, it’s a comforting and easy Italian main course perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Paste
- 12 oz radiatore pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the radiatore pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set the pasta aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shallot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened but not browned.
- Deglaze with Wine: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly, enhancing the sauce’s depth of flavor.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the unsalted butter to give the sauce a silky texture and rich finish.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked radiatore pasta to the skillet. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Toss well until every piece of pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy radiatore pasta immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- The ridged shape of radiatore pasta is ideal for holding onto creamy sauces, enhancing every bite.
- For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or grilled chicken.
- If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with vegetable broth to maintain moisture and flavor.
