Description
Spicy Basil Rigatoni is a flavorful Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring rigatoni tossed in a vibrant, spicy tomato sauce infused with fresh basil, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Creamy Parmesan cheese and optional heavy cream add richness, making this a satisfying vegetarian main course perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
- ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
Toppings
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, then set both aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
- Add Basil and Cream: Remove the sauce from heat momentarily to stir in the chopped fresh basil and the heavy cream or coconut milk if using. This adds freshness and creaminess to the sauce.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Return the skillet to medium heat and add the cooked rigatoni. Toss everything together to coat the pasta thoroughly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
- Finish with Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until it melts into a creamy, rich coating. Serve the rigatoni hot, garnished with extra fresh basil and additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or sautéed Italian sausage to the dish.
- To make this dish dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
