why make this recipe
Bucatini with Amatriciana Sauce is a classic Italian dish that brings together simple ingredients for a tasty meal. The combination of crispy pancetta, rich tomatoes, and sharp pecorino cheese creates a hearty sauce that perfectly coats the bucatini pasta. It is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
how to make Bucatini with Amatriciana Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bucatini pasta
- 4 ounces pancetta, diced
- 1 can (28 ounces) whole tomatoes
- 1 cup grated pecorino cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- In a skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until it is crispy.
- Add the canned tomatoes, with their juices, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the bucatini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is al dente.
- Drain the pasta and toss it with the sauce in the skillet, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
- Serve hot, topped with grated pecorino cheese.
how to serve Bucatini with Amatriciana Sauce
Serve bucatini with Amatriciana Sauce hot, straight from the skillet. You can sprinkle extra grated pecorino cheese on top for added flavor. A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs nicely with this dish.
how to store Bucatini with Amatriciana Sauce
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
tips to make Bucatini with Amatriciana Sauce
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be firm to the bite, or "al dente."
- For a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
variation
You can try adding onions or garlic to the pancetta for extra flavor. Some variations also include adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like spaghetti or rigatoni, but keep in mind that they will change the texture of the dish slightly.
Is pancetta the only meat I can use?
While pancetta is traditional, you can also use guanciale or even bacon if you cannot find pancetta.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the meat altogether and enhance the tomato sauce with more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.