Howdy! There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of perfectly cooked rigatoni, smothered in a rich, homemade marinara sauce. This dish is a classic Italian comfort food that’s simple to prepare but full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just craving some cozy, carb-loaded goodness, Rigatoni with Homemade Marinara is a dish that never disappoints.
Crafting the Perfect Marinara Sauce
The heart of this dish is the homemade marinara sauce. While store-bought sauces can be convenient, there’s nothing quite like the taste of a sauce made from scratch. Start with a base of ripe, juicy tomatoes. Simmer them slowly with garlic, onions, and a mix of Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. The key is to let the sauce simmer long enough for the flavors to meld together, creating a sauce that’s both robust and comforting.
Cooking the Rigatoni to Perfection
Rigatoni is the perfect pasta for this dish because its ridges and large tubes hold onto the marinara sauce beautifully. To get the best texture, cook the rigatoni in well-salted boiling water until it’s al dente. This means the pasta should still have a slight bite to it—soft on the outside but firm on the inside. Be sure to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as it can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Recipe
📖 Recipe
RIGATONI WITH HOMEMADE MARINARA
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 27 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 c chicken broth
- 1 T parsley flake
- 1 T garlic powder
- 2 t oregano
- 2 t Italian seasoning
- 2 t onion powder
- 2 t red pepper flake
- ½ c grated Parmesan
- 2 T capers
Instructions
- Cook pasta in water well seasoned with chicken bullion until al dente, about 8 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, put all ingredients except capers and Parmesan in a small pot.
- Simmer on low for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Put drained pasta back into the pot you cooked it in.
- Ladle in sauce until it’s coated how you like.
- Add in capers.
- Serve in shallow bowls topped with Parmesan and more red pepper flake, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Bringing It All Together
Once your sauce and pasta are ready, it’s time to combine them. Toss the rigatoni into the marinara sauce, making sure each piece is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top and finish with a handful of chopped fresh basil. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Protein Add-Ins
To elevate your Rigatoni with Homemade Marinara, consider adding some protein for a heartier meal. Grilled or sautéed chicken is a classic choice that pairs beautifully with the rich tomato sauce. If you're in the mood for something more robust, try adding slices of seared beef, which adds depth and a savory bite to the dish. For a lighter option, sautéed shrimp is an excellent addition, bringing a touch of the sea that complements the marinara's tangy flavors. These protein add-ins not only make the dish more filling but also add an extra layer of deliciousness to your plate.
Rigatoni with Homemade Marinara is more than just a meal; it's a comforting dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist with extra ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and delicious, give this Rigatoni with Homemade Marinara a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Give this recipe a try, and tag me on Instagram @thefischerupper.
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