Easy Rigatoni is a simple, satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick lunch. Cooked rigatoni pasta is tossed with a savory tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal. This recipe is customizable—you can add vegetables, sausage, or chicken to make it even heartier.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
2. Ingredients
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12 oz rigatoni pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
3. Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve immediately, with extra cheese on top if desired.
4. Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 310
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 11g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 420mg
5. Tips
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For extra flavor, sauté onions or bell peppers with the garlic.
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Add cooked sausage, chicken, or roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.
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Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
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Fresh herbs added at the end keep the flavors bright and fresh.
