Rigatoni with Pecorino Cheese Sauce

Ingredients:

1 lbs rigatoni pasta

2 tblsp Unsalted butter

1 tsp Garlic paste

Salt and pepper to taste

8 oz grated Pecorino Romano

cheese

Fresh chopped parsley

3 cups Heavy cream

1 large Egg beaten

Instructions:

In a pot of boiling water add some salt to taste, vegetable oil and pasta. Boil for 10 min or untill aldente.

Place another sauce pan on medium heat.

Add butter, garlic and sauteed for 2 to 3 minutes.

Add heavy cream, grated cheese, salt and pepper.

Stir constantly for 5 min.

With a large spoon or laddle remove some of the hot cream sauce and add to the beaten egg.

Mix together and add slowly back to the sauce. Continue to stir for 3 to 5 more minutes.

Add pasta and mix together.

Add parsley and bring heat to medium low for untill ready to serve.

Notes:

Pasta Cooking: Boil the rigatoni pasta in salted water until al dente. This ensures the pasta is cooked properly and maintains a firm texture.

Sauce Preparation: The sauce is made by sautéing unsalted butter and garlic paste until fragrant, then adding heavy cream, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, salt, and pepper. Stirring constantly while adding the ingredients helps ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.

Egg Mixture: To prevent the egg from scrambling when added to the hot cream sauce, it’s important to temper it by slowly incorporating some of the hot sauce into the beaten egg before adding it back to the saucepan. This step should be done gradually while stirring continuously.

Thickening the Sauce: Continuing to stir the sauce for 3 to 5 more minutes after adding the egg mixture helps thicken it to the desired consistency.

Incorporating Pasta: After preparing the sauce, add the cooked rigatoni pasta and mix well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. This ensures each bite is flavorful.

Finishing Touch: Adding fresh chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor of the dish. Bringing the heat to medium-low until ready to serve helps keep the dish warm without overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions: If desired, you can substitute other types of pasta for rigatoni or use different types of cheese for the sauce, such as Parmesan or Asiago, depending on your preference.

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Portion Control: This dish is rich and indulgent due to the heavy cream and cheese, so portion control is key. It’s a hearty meal that pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.

Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Enjoyment: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation while the sauce is creamy and the pasta is hot. Serve it as a comforting and satisfying meal for lunch or dinner, perhaps accompanied by a glass of white wine for added indulgence.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of rigatoni?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti would work well too.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter alternative, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

Can I omit the egg from the sauce?

Yes, you can omit the egg if you prefer.

The sauce will still be creamy but may have a slightly different texture.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the egg and use a vegetarian-friendly cheese alternative, such as vegetarian Pecorino Romano or Parmesan.

Can I use pre-grated cheese instead of grating it myself?

Pre-grated cheese can be used, but freshly grated cheese tends to melt more smoothly and provides better flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I add other ingredients to the sauce, like mushrooms or bacon?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the sauce with your favorite ingredients.

Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream.

Is Pecorino Romano cheese salty?

Yes, Pecorino Romano cheese is known for its salty flavor, so be mindful of how much additional salt you add to the dish.

What can I serve with this pasta dish?

This pasta pairs well with a simple side salad and some crusty bread.

A glass of white wine also complements the flavors nicely.