Cheesy Chili Oil Pasta Bake - Farah J. Eats

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb rigatoni pasta (or penne)
• 2.5 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp oil
• 6 cloves garlic (sliced)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2.5 tbsp chili oil (just the sediments) (see notes)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or heavy cream)
• 1/4 cup pasta water
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust accordingly - see notes)
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 2 tsp dried/fresh basil (optional)
• 3 cups shredded smoked gouda (or cheese of choice)
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar (or cheese of choice)
• parsley (for garnish)