Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes).
- Drain: Once the pasta is cooked, drain and set aside, saving a cup of pasta water for later in case the sauce needs thinning.
2. Make the Pink Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until the sauce turns a lovely pink color, then add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add Pasta: Once the pink sauce is ready, add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Simmer: Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
4. Serve and Garnish
- Plate: Serve the rigatoni in bowls or on plates, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Optional Extras: You can also sprinkle more Parmesan on top for a cheesier finish.
- Prep Time: 5 min.
- Cook Time: 25 min.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g