Creamy Rigatoni with Tomato Sauce

Looking for a delicious and comforting pasta dish to whip up in no time? Look no further than this creamy rigatoni with tomato sauce recipe! It’s bursting with flavors, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. The combination of rich tomato sauce and creamy pasta creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will have you coming back for seconds.
2. With quick prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead.
3. The versatility of this recipe allows for easy customization with your favorite ingredients or dietary restrictions.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Sauce:

• Olive oil: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Shallot and garlic: Provide aromatic flavors to enhance the overall taste.
• Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes: Infuse the sauce with a hint of spice and herbaceous notes.
• Fresh basil leaves: Elevate the freshness of the dish.
• Cherry tomatoes: Add a burst of sweetness and acidity to the sauce.
• Sugar (optional): Balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Unsalted butter: Creates a creamy and luscious texture.

For the Pasta:

• Rigatoni pasta: The perfect choice for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• Salt and olive oil: Season the pasta water and prevent sticking.
• Pasta water: Essential for thinning out the sauce and binding it with the pasta.

For Garnishing:

• Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese balls: Add a finishing touch of flavor and texture to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté shallot and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and half of the basil leaves.
3. Stir in cherry tomatoes and sugar, then simmer until the tomatoes soften.
4. Stir in butter until melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Cook rigatoni in salted water until al dente, then reserve some pasta water.
6. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding pasta water as needed to create a creamy consistency.
7. Serve the creamy rigatoni topped with Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese balls.

Helpful Tips:

• Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-sensitive diet.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
2. Don’t skip the sugar in the sauce—it helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
3. Stir the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this creamy rigatoni with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat, place the leftovers in a pan with a splash of water and gently heat until warmed through. Add a drizzle of olive oil to refresh the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh? Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but dried basil can be used as a substitute.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian? Simply omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
3. Can I freeze the creamy rigatoni? It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as the creamy sauce may separate when frozen and reheated.

Conclusion:

Creamy rigatoni with tomato sauce is a simple yet satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious pasta creation. Don’t forget to share your feedback and tag us in your culinary creations!

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