Description
Creamy Rigatoni is a cozy, indulgent pasta dish featuring a garlic-Parmesan cream sauce with a hint of spice—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 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 olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in half and half and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 3–5 minutes to allow sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- Substitute rigatoni with penne or ziti if needed.
- Use whole milk with a splash of cream if half and half isn’t available.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for variety.
- Include grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Finish with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
