Description
A flavorful and creamy spicy rigatoni pasta recipe that combines al dente rigatoni with a savory tomato and garlic sauce, enriched with heavy cream and a kick of red chili flakes. Perfect for a quick, comforting dinner garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
To Serve
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn it.
- Simmer Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stir well to combine with the garlic and oil. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Spice: Mix in the red chili flakes, adjusting the amount to your desired spice level. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the spicy creamy tomato sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta while hot, and garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Adjust red chili flakes amount according to your preferred spice tolerance.
- Use fresh garlic to enhance flavor; garlic powder is not recommended for this recipe.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the sauce a little longer before adding the cream.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to loosen the sauce if needed when mixing.
