Spicy Sausage Marinara Rigatoni

Ingredients

• 10 oz Italian sausage (spicy), casings removed
• 6 oz rigatoni
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• 2 cloves garlic(optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil(optional)
• 1 tsp kosher salt(optional)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper(optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente, then reserve about 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.

2. 2

   While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add spicy Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.

3. 3

   Stir in garlic (if using) and chili flakes and cook 30 seconds. Add marinara sauce and bring to a simmer; cook 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

4. 4

   Add drained rigatoni to the sauce and toss until glossy and evenly coated. If needed, loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water. Season with black pepper (and salt if needed). Serve immediately, topping with Parmesan if using.