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Creamy Spicy Rigatoni Recipe Easy Dinner in 30 Minutes

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A quick and easy creamy rigatoni dish with a spicy kick, perfect for cozy dinners or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1–2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup pasta water (reserved)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • A handful of fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.
  4. Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly and becomes aromatic.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.
  6. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce.
  7. Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
  8. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  9. Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat each piece in the creamy, spicy sauce.
  10. Optional: Stir in chopped basil for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and basil if desired.

Notes

[‘Cook pasta to al dente for the best texture.’, ‘Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.’, ‘Use freshly grated parmesan for a smoother sauce.’, ‘Adjust spice levels to your preference.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Rigatoni, Spicy Pasta, Quick Dinner, Italian Comfort Food, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/creamy-spicy-rigatoni-recipe-easy-dinner-in-30-minutes/