Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta Recipe

Here's a rich and satisfying Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your household. The combination of perfectly cooked rigatoni, a velvety tomato-based sauce, and just the right amount of cream creates a dish that's both comforting and indulgent.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe on a cold evening when I was craving something hearty but easy to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal effort, I whipped up a meal that had everyone scraping their plates clean. Now, it's a go-to whenever I need a quick yet satisfying dinner option.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta

Get ready to enjoy a pasta dish that checks all the boxes—creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.

This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver when you need dinner fast.

You'll love how budget-friendly it is. With simple, affordable ingredients like canned tomatoes, pasta, and cream, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the high price tag.

The versatility of this recipe is another major plus. You can customize it to your taste by adding protein like chicken or shrimp, or even tossing in some spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

The creamy tomato sauce is the real star here. It strikes the perfect balance between rich and tangy, coating every piece of rigatoni in a luscious, flavorful embrace.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this pasta dish lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in making the sauce smooth, balanced, and packed with flavor.

Rigatoni is the ideal pasta shape for this recipe. Its ridges help hold onto the creamy tomato sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. If you don’t have rigatoni on hand, penne or ziti will also work well.

Canned crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce, providing a deep, rich tomato flavor. Be sure to use a good-quality brand to avoid excess acidity. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the tomatoes before cooking.

Heavy cream is what gives this pasta its signature velvety texture. It balances out the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a luxurious consistency. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

Garlic and onions add depth and aromatic warmth to the dish. Sautéing them in olive oil before adding the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness, bringing out even more flavor.

If you want to elevate the dish further, a splash of white wine can add a subtle tangy complexity to the sauce. It’s an optional ingredient, but one that can make a noticeable difference.

How To Make This Creamy Tomato Rigatoni Pasta

This dish comes together in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Be sure to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as this can help adjust the consistency of the sauce later.

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the tomatoes to break down further.

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, creating a beautifully smooth and creamy texture. If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is well coated in the luscious sauce. Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld, then remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to develop even more overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.

To reheat, simply warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This creamy tomato rigatoni is endlessly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.

For a protein-packed version, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage to the sauce. This will turn it into a hearty, well-balanced meal.

Want to make it vegetarian-friendly? Stir in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added texture and nutrients. These ingredients blend seamlessly into the creamy tomato base.

If you're looking to lighten things up, swap out the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. The sauce will still be creamy, but with a slightly different flavor profile.

Love a little heat? Increase the red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste for a spicier kick.

No matter how you tweak it, this pasta is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and making it your own!

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