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Easy Rigatoni Recipe

Easy Rigatoni Recipe
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This Easy Rigatoni Recipe is a quick and comforting pasta dish that combines hearty rigatoni with a rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it uses simple pantry staples to create a flavorful, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta

Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Garnish

  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions, about 12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Simmer the Tomato Sauce: Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir in salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves for a fragrant finish.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Serve the rigatoni hot, topped generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Optionally, drizzle extra virgin olive oil for shine and deeper flavor.

Notes

  • Al Dente is Key: Cook rigatoni until firm to the bite for best texture and to avoid mushiness.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some starchy pasta water to help the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
  • Fresh Herbs Matter: Add fresh basil at the end to preserve its bright flavor and aroma.
  • Season Gradually: Taste the sauce as you cook to balance salt, spice, and acidity perfectly.
  • Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for good-quality canned crushed tomatoes for a richer, homemade taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: rigatoni, easy pasta recipe, quick dinner, tomato sauce, Italian, weeknight meal, comfort food, vegetarian option

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/easy-rigatoni-recipe/