Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta – Family Fresh Meals

If you need a quick, comforting meal for those hectic weeknights, this Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta is a fantastic option. With a velvety tomato sauce, perfectly tender rigatoni and fresh spinach, it’s ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy families.

How do I store and reheat this recipe?

This creamy tomato rigatoni pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Heat over low heat on the stove and add a splash of stock or cream to maintain the creamy texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce individually for up to 2 months and prepare fresh pasta when you want to serve it.

Is this recipe spicy?

You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a mild sauce, use only 1 teaspoon or omit it altogether.

Can I use a different type of paste?

Yes! Although rigatoni is ideal for storing thick sauces, penne or ziti also work well.

Table of Contents

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substitutions:

Ground beef or Italian sausage: Replace the vegetable stock with ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
Ground Turkey: If you’re looking for a lighter protein option, ground turkey works well in place of beef or sausage.
Dairy-free: Replace the whipped cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Ingredients needed

Olive oil: Forms the base of the sauce and helps sauté the garlic and onions for rich flavor.
Garlic: Adds a fragrant, savory note to the sauce.
Sweet onion: Adds a slight sweetness and depth to the creamy tomato sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors of all ingredients.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a bit of heat and spice for balance.
San Marzano tomatoes: These canned tomatoes are known for their sweetness and make the perfect base for the sauce.
Vegetable or chicken stock: Adds rich flavor and helps simmer the rigatoni to al dente perfection
Heavy cream: Creates the creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
Grape tomatoes: Adds a touch of fresh flavor and color.
Spinach: A healthy addition that fits seamlessly with the sauce.
Rigatoni pasta: The perfect shape to hold the thick creamy sauce.
Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant, fresh herbal note to complete the dish.
Pecorino Romano: A sharp, salty cheese that takes the dish to the next level with its umami flavor.

How do you make creamy tomato rigatoni?

In a deep frying pan, add olive oil and chopped garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced onion, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper and red pepper flakes and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
Then add your grape tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes to release the juices.
Add your stock and canned tomatoes. Break the tomatoes with your spoon and combine. Bring to the boil.
Once it boils, add rigatoni. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is done.
Add your cream, spinach and basil. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens. If necessary, add more salt to taste.
Sprinkle your rigatoni with freshly grated pecorino and chopped basil.

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