Description
This creamy rigatoni recipe features tender rigatoni pasta cooked directly in a rich and flavorful sauce made with half and half, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs. It’s a quick and comforting pasta dish with a silky texture and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 pound rigatoni
Sauce and Seasonings
- 4 cups half and half
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Garlic and Herbs: Preheat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Half and Half and Simmer: Pour in the half and half, gently bringing it to a simmer while stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to warm through.
- Cook Rigatoni in Sauce: Add the rigatoni directly to the pot with the simmering sauce. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and cook until al dente, following the package’s recommended time, typically about 12 minutes.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly to melt and blend into the creamy sauce, creating a rich texture.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper to your preference, mixing well for balanced seasoning.
- Let Sauce Thicken: Remove the pot from heat and let the creamy rigatoni rest for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and enhances the texture.
- Serve Hot: Serve the creamy rigatoni immediately as a comforting main dish, garnished as desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, you can add a splash of cream or a pat of butter at the end.
- If the sauce is too thick after resting, thin it with a little pasta water or milk.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the pasta in the sauce to prevent sticking and burning at the bottom.
- You can garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.