Step 1

Start by mincing the garlic, onions, and Thai chilis if using. Mince until they are small pieces so that the aromatics get cooked evenly.

Step 2

Bring a pot of water to a boil and add in about 1 tbsp of salt. Then cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to take a quarter cup of pasta or so after the pasta has been cooking for a while.

Step 3

In a skillet, use ¼ tablespoon of butter and cooking spray if needed and sauté the aromatics. Also add in the tomato paste and sauté until it caramelizes, about 5-6 minutes. Be sure to continue to stir the aromatics so that they don’t burn.

Step 4

Bring the heat to low to ensure the half and half doesn’t evaporate. Once the pan has cooled down, add in the half and half and mix the sauce thoroughly, adding pasta water as needed until the sauce is at the right consistency.

Step 5

Add the pasta into the sauce and mix thoroughly, adding pasta water in as needed. Mix in part of the cheese as well, saving some for the garnish.

Step 6

Remove from heat, garnish with cheese, red pepper flakes, and basil and enjoy your delicious healthy spicy rigatoni.