Rigatoni is one of the most beloved pasta shapes in Italian cuisine. With its wide, ridged tubes, it’s perfect for holding onto rich, flavorful sauces. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this hearty Rigatoni Pasta Recipe is sure to please. The good news is, making a delicious rigatoni pasta dish at home is easier than you might think! In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple and tasty rigatoni pasta recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients for Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
To make a fantastic rigatoni dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients that work together to create rich flavors:
- 400g (14 oz) Rigatoni pasta (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes or 2 cups fresh chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (a handful, chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh mozzarella, cubed (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions for Making Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions, making sure to salt the water generously. This will ensure that the pasta is flavorful. Rigatoni typically cooks in 10-12 minutes. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta, saving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes (or fresh chopped tomatoes if you’re using them). Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like some heat). Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken. You can add a little of the reserved pasta water to the sauce if it gets too thick.
Step 4: Cream and Cheese
Once the tomato sauce has thickened, stir in the heavy cream to create a rich, velvety texture. Then add in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s fully melted into the sauce. This adds a nice cheesy, creamy flavor that complements the tangy tomatoes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta completely. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Continue cooking the pasta and sauce together for a couple of minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the pasta is well coated in the sauce, add the fresh basil leaves and toss again. For an even richer dish, you can fold in some cubed fresh mozzarella, allowing it to melt slightly into the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your rigatoni pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired. Pair it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Rigatoni Pasta
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil will elevate the flavors of your dish. If possible, use in-season tomatoes for the best taste.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Since rigatoni holds sauce well, you want it to be al dente (firm to the bite). Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold the sauce as well.
- Experiment with protein: Add ground beef, sausage, or chicken to make the dish more filling and turn it into a one-pan meal.
- Make it vegetarian: If you prefer a meatless version, simply skip the protein and enjoy the rich, creamy sauce with just the pasta.
This rigatoni pasta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal at home. With the combination of creamy sauce, rich flavors from the tomatoes, and the satisfying texture of rigatoni, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients like protein or extra herbs. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe will bring the taste of Italy right into your kitchen. Buon appetito!