Spicy Italian Sausage Rigatoni with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
• 400g rigatoni pasta
• 300g spicy Italian sausage (removed from casing)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rigatoni:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
• In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to thicken slightly.
• Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine:
• Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
• If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
• Stir in the fresh basil.
4. Serve:
• Divide the pasta onto plates.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves.
Enjoy your spicy and flavorful Italian pasta dish!