Indulge your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish! Our Rigatoni Roasted Pepper Sauce Ricotta is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed streets of Italy. Imagine perfectly cooked rigatoni enveloped in a creamy, dreamy sauce made from roasted red peppers and ricotta cheese, all topped with fresh basil. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to discover how to make this mouthwatering masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 2 roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add chopped roasted red peppers to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes to release their flavors and warm them through.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the rigatoni. This starchy water will help create a smooth sauce.
- Transfer drained pasta directly into the skillet with roasted peppers. Toss to combine and coat the pasta evenly.
- Reduce heat to low. Add ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan, stirring gently to create a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot, offering additional Parmesan cheese at the table for guests who want extra.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the rigatoni until al dente for the best texture. This allows the pasta to hold up against the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
- Garlic Timing: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly!
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save that 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water! It’s a game-changer for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- Creamy Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh basil and high-quality ricotta and Parmesan cheese. They make all the difference!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds a lovely finishing touch!
- Customize It: Feel free to add vegetables or proteins of your choice, such as spinach or grilled chicken, to make the dish your own.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
