Date Night Rigatoni

Ingredients:

For the Rigatoni Dish:

• 16 oz rigatoni pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For Garnish:

• Grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Steps:

Step 1: Cook Rigatoni Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown Italian Sausage In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Brown the sausage until fully cooked and slightly crispy. Remove excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic Add finely chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Simmer Tomato Sauce Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing it to thicken.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Pasta Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve Garnish the Date Night Rigatoni with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Create an Ambiance Serve the Date Night Rigatoni on warm plates, accompanied by a candlelit ambiance, your favorite beverages, and perhaps some soft music playing in the background.

Enjoy the cozy and romantic atmosphere as you savor each bite of this delicious Date Night Rigatoni together. It's a dish that warms the heart and enhances the special moments shared between two people.