Sun-Dried Tomato Rigatoni - Serving Dumplings

Ingredients

• 9 ounces rigatoni
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves (grated or pressed)
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream)
• ½ cup grated pecorino
• 3 ounces sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
• 2 tbsp chopped basil leaves
• crushed red pepper flakes (for serving)