Rigatoni Recipe

Bring water to boil

In a large pot, bring 5 liters of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt once boiling.

Cook rigatoni

Add 1 lb rigatoni to the boiling, salted water and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package instructions (typically 10–12 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat until butter melts and begins to foam.

Add 1 cup finely diced onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 6–8 minutes.

Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30–45 seconds, being careful not to let the garlic brown.

Stir in 3 tablespoons tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes to caramelize the paste slightly and deepen flavor.

Add the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add up to 1/2 cup reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

If you want a creamier sauce, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half and warm through for 1–2 minutes (do not boil).

Add the drained rigatoni to the sauce pan and toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time as needed to make a glossy sauce that clings to the pasta (use about 1/4–1/2 cup). Cook together for 1–2 minutes so flavors meld.

Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil and 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning with up to an additional 1/2 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Serve immediately, topped with extra grated Parmesan and a few basil leaves if desired.