Grandma’s Creamy Rigatoni with Cherry Tomatoes and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish for any occasion. This easy-to-make pasta recipe blends sautéed onions, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy egg sauce for a rich and flavorful meal. It’s a classic family favorite, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. This dish is sure to become a staple in your home, combining simplicity with hearty goodness that everyone will love.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- Rigatoni Pasta: 150g (about 1½ cups)
- Eggs: 4 large
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup (about 10-12), halved
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Dried Garlic: ¼ teaspoon
- Sour Cream: 2 tablespoons
- Cheese: 100g (about 1 cup), grated
- Boiling Water: 1 liter
- Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Sunflower Oil: 1 tablespoon
Directions:
- Cook Pasta: Boil 1 liter of water, add salt, and cook 150g of Rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions: Heat butter in a pan and sauté finely chopped onions until translucent.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the pan, cooking until they soften.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: Whisk eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and dried garlic together.
- Combine: Pour egg mixture into the pan, stir in cheese, and cook until sauce thickens. Add cooked pasta and mix well.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Top with additional grated cheese or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan.
- To avoid scrambled eggs, stir constantly while adding the egg mixture to the pan.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Protein: Eggs and cheese provide protein, supporting muscle health.
- Rich in Calcium: The cheese and sour cream contribute to strong bones.
- Loaded with Veggies: Cherry tomatoes and onions offer essential vitamins and antioxidants.
- Comfort Food: A balanced mix of carbs, protein, and fats for a satisfying meal.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is meat-free.
- Contains Dairy and Eggs: Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies.
- Can Be Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Calcium: 180mg
Storage:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of milk or cream.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a little milk if the sauce has thickened.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Comforting & Creamy: A rich, cheesy sauce with fresh tomatoes brings a cozy flavor to the dish.
- Family Tradition: Passed down from Grandma, this recipe is packed with love and tradition.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, herbs, or spices to make it your own.
Conclusion:
Grandma’s Creamy Rigatoni is the ultimate comfort dish that brings generations together over the dinner table. Its rich sauce, bursting with flavor from sautéed onions and fresh tomatoes, is a true family classic. The simple ingredients come together to create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe will easily become a family favorite, offering warmth and comfort with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne or fusilli works great in this recipe as well. - Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt will add a slight tang and extra protein. - What kind of cheese is best for this dish?
A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives a perfect melt, but any cheese you like can be used. - Can I add meat to the recipe?
Yes, cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage would make a great addition to the dish. - How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap the Rigatoni with a gluten-free pasta option. - Can I prepare the dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately and combine them just before serving. - Can I replace cherry tomatoes with canned tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes work in a pinch, but fresh tomatoes give a better flavor. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
For a vegan version, substitute eggs with a plant-based egg alternative and use vegan cheese and sour cream. - What should I do if the sauce thickens too much?
Add a little milk or cream while reheating to loosen the sauce. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.