Print

One Pot Spicy Rigatoni Recipe

4.5 from 90 reviews

A creamy, spicy one-pot rigatoni recipe that combines marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, and parmesan for a comforting Italian-inspired meal. This dish is quick to prepare, using just one pot for an easy cleanup, and features tender rigatoni simmered in a flavorful broth, finished with heavy cream and peas for added richness and color.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 small diced shallot
  • 5 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 16 ounces uncooked rigatoni pasta
  • 20 ounces good quality marinara sauce
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese shavings
  • 1 cup cooked green peas

Instructions

  1. Melt the Butter and Sauté Aromatics: Place the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. As the butter melts, add the diced shallot and minced garlic to the pot, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add Red Pepper and Soften Aromatics: Sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes into the pot and stir to combine. Allow the shallots and garlic to cook and soften for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning or sticking.
  3. Add Pasta and Liquids, Bring to Boil: Add the uncooked rigatoni pasta to the pot, followed by the marinara sauce, chicken or vegetable broth, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the mixture up to a gentle boil.
  4. Simmer Pasta: Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the rigatoni cook for about 12-13 minutes or until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Finish with Cream, Peas, and Cheese: When the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, cooked green peas, and parmesan cheese shavings. Cook over medium heat, mixing until the sauce thickens slightly and all ingredients are well incorporated.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley and extra parmesan for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
  • Use vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make a great garnish.
  • Stir occasionally while cooking pasta to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.

Keywords: one pot rigatoni, spicy rigatoni, creamy pasta, easy pasta recipe, one pot pasta, Italian pasta dish, quick dinner, comfort food