Name: Rigatoni Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces rigatoni pasta; 1/2 cup pasta water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 pound ground Italian sausage; 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil + more for garnish; shredded Parmesan for garnish; Kosher salt; black pepper

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Looking for a delicious and easy pasta recipe? Look no further than this savory rigatoni pasta dish! With flavorful Italian sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and al dente pasta, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and sausage creates a mouthwatering taste that will have you coming back for seconds.
Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Perfect for meal prep: This dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day or freeze leftovers for later.

Ingredient Notes:

Rigatoni pasta: Provides a sturdy base for the sauce to cling to.

Pasta water: Adds starch to help thicken the sauce and coat the pasta.
Olive oil: Infuses a rich flavor into the dish.
Garlic: Adds a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor.
Italian seasoning: Enhances the Italian flavors in the dish.
Ground Italian sausage: Adds a savory and hearty element to the sauce.

Crushed tomatoes: Provides a rich and tangy tomato base.
Heavy cream: Adds a creamy texture to the sauce.
Fresh chopped basil: Adds a fresh and herbaceous note.
Parmesan: Offers a salty and nutty flavor.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Season to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package directions, reserving some pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add Italian seasoning and ground Italian sausage, cooking until browned.

Stir in crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, simmering until heated through.
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, adding pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper.

Serve hot, garnished with shredded Parmesan and additional basil.

Helpful Tips:

Don’t overcook the pasta to maintain its texture.
Save pasta water to help thicken and evenly distribute the sauce.
Customize the dish by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Substitute ground turkey or beef for a lighter option.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Add a splash of red wine for a deeper complexity.

Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this rigatoni pasta with a simple green salad, crusty bread, and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape in this recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Substitute plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu for the Italian sausage.
Can I freeze this pasta? Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to whip up this delicious rigatoni pasta recipe! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting appeal. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!