Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta. The combination of al dente pasta, a luscious tomato sauce, and just the right touch of cream creates a dish that's both simple and indulgent.

I first fell in love with this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and a little bit of love, this pasta quickly became a household favorite.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta

Get ready to add a new staple to your weekly dinner rotation. This Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta is the perfect balance of ease and flavor.

First off, it's quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

It's also budget-friendly. With simple ingredients like canned tomatoes, pasta, and cream, you can feed a family without breaking the bank.

The flavor is rich and comforting. The creamy tomato sauce clings to every bite of rigatoni, delivering a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.

And best of all, it's versatile. You can add protein like chicken or shrimp, toss in some spinach for extra greens, or even make it vegan with dairy-free alternatives.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta lies in its simple yet high-impact ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish’s perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Rigatoni pasta is the ideal choice for this recipe. Its ridged surface holds onto the creamy sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. If you don’t have rigatoni, penne or ziti are great substitutes.

Canned crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce. Their deep, rich flavor intensifies as they simmer, creating a luscious sauce. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.

Heavy cream brings a velvety texture and balances the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the sauce won’t be as rich.

Garlic and onions add depth and aroma. Freshly minced garlic and finely diced onions help build a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

A touch of Parmesan cheese enhances the overall taste with its nutty, salty notes. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and consistency.

How To Make This Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering dish is easier than you think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and thicken slightly.

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, creating that signature creamy texture. Add the drained rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat each piece evenly. If the sauce is too thick, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! This Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta stores beautifully.

For refrigeration, place the cooled pasta in an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to bring back the creamy consistency.

Freezing is an option too. Store the sauce separately from the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, stirring in freshly cooked pasta.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, making it easy to customize based on your preferences.

For a protein boost, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cooked Italian sausage to the sauce.

Want extra vegetables? Stir in fresh spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition and texture.

To make it vegan, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative.

If you love spicy flavors, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.

However you choose to customize it, this Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and making it your own!

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