Description
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful pasta dish with this Spicy Basil Rigatoni recipe. The combination of tangy tomato paste, fragrant basil, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes makes this dish a standout favorite. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 oz 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)
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or Calabrian chili paste for extra heat
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil rigatoni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Sauté garlic, shallot, and red pepper flakes in olive oil. Add tomato paste, then heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, adding reserved water as needed. Simmer briefly.
- Serve: Top with Parmesan and basil before serving.
Notes
- For a plant-based version, use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan.
- Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein.
- Calabrian chili paste adds smoky depth and a spicier kick if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
