Description
Spicy Basil Rigatoni is a flavorful and creamy Italian-American pasta dish combining al dente rigatoni with a spicy tomato cream sauce enriched with fresh basil, garlic, shallots, and Parmesan cheese. This easy stovetop recipe strikes the perfect balance between heat and creaminess, making it an ultimate comfort meal that is both satisfying and vibrant.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional pinch of sugar to balance acidity
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped shallot, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and the shallots are softened.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor. Add crushed tomatoes, and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar if desired. Let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cream and Basil: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and chopped fresh basil. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Gradually add some reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and ensure it clings to the pasta.
- Finish and Serve: Cook the pasta and sauce together for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use plant-based Parmesan cheese.
- Add cooked spicy sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a boost of protein.
- This sauce works well with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli.
