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Rigatoni in Pink Sauce


  • Author: Christine
  • Total Time: 30 min.

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