There are pasta dishes that comfort us on a busy weeknight and then there are pasta dishes that transport us straight to Italy; Bucatini all’Amatriciana certainly does the latter. As a passionate home cook and lover of all things Italian, I am beyond excited to share a recipe that is so simple in execution but rich in history and flavor.
Bucatini all’Amatriciana is a traditional Italian pasta dish hailing from the picturesque town of Amatrice in central Italy. Its simplicity belies its depth of flavor, making it a staple in Italian cuisine. This dish typically consists of thick, hollow spaghetti-like noodles known as bucatini, paired with a savory tomato-based sauce infused with cured pork cheek, pecorino cheese, onions, and a dash of chili pepper for a subtle kick.
Bucatini all’Amatriciana
Ingredients
To make sure your Bucatini all’Amatriciana hits the perfect notes of tangy, savory, and just a hint of spice, ensure you have the following on hand:
- 400g of bucatini pasta
- 150g of pancetta or guanciale, thinly sliced
- 1 can (400g) of San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 100g of Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- A pinch of red chili flakes (optional for an extra kick)
- Salt, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil
With our ingredient list ready, make some space on your countertop, pour yourself a little vino if that’s your style, and let’s get cooking!
Instructions
Cooking Bucatini all’Amatriciana involves romance between the ingredients, each bringing out the other’s best qualities. Here’s how:
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil and cook the bucatini until it’s al dente (usually about 2 minutes less than the packet instructions).
- Meanwhile, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta or guanciale and cook it until it starts to crisp up and renders its delicious fats. It’s this fat that’s going to give our dish a ton of flavor, so savor the sizzle!
- Toss in the onion and garlic, letting them soften and turn golden, stirring occasionally. The aroma should be your signal that things are heading in the right direction!
- Add the hand-crushed San Marzano tomatoes along with their juice. I like crushing them with my hands to feel more connected to the dish. Season the sauce with salt and chili flakes (if using).
- Let the sauce simmer and bubble gently for about 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for it to thicken slightly and for the flavors to concentrate.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the pasta water, then drain the bucatini. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach a silky consistency.
- To finish, sprinkle a generous amount of grated Pecorino Romano over the pasta. The heat from the pasta will melt the cheese, creating a creamy and tantalizing finish.
- Serve immediately and watch as the table falls silent with the first bite, the only sound being the contented sighs of Italian cuisine bliss.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
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Tips for Customization
As I always say, recipes are simply guidelines – feel free to make this dish your own! If you fancy a vegetarian twist, skip the pancetta, and maybe add in some mushrooms or even eggplant. Can’t handle the heat? Skip the chili flakes. You are the artist and this Italian classic is your canvas.
How to Store
If by some miracle you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen up the sauce.
Conclusion
Bucatini all’Amatriciana might just become a new favorite in your pasta repertoire. It balances simplicity and indulgence in a way that only true Italian cuisine can do. No wonder it has stood the test of time!
FAQs
What can I use if I can’t find pancetta or guanciale?
You can use bacon as a substitute, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Pecorino Romano is traditional, you can certainly experiment with Parmesan or Grana Padano if that’s what you have handy.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Absolutely, there are excellent gluten-free bucatini or spaghetti that can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
Sharing this dish with friends and family brings me so much joy, and I hope it’ll do the same for you. There’s something magical about a bowl of pasta that has been spun together with care and tradition—may Bucatini all’Amatriciana cast its spell on your kitchen too. Buon appetite!
