Crushed Red Pepper and Pancetta Pasta
Indulge in the bold, irresistible flavors of Crushed Red Pepper and Pancetta Pasta, a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. This recipe brings together crispy pancetta, fragrant garlic, and a fiery kick of crushed red pepper flakes, all nestled in a silky sauce made with olive oil, white wine (optional), and a splash of starchy pasta water. The golden-brown pancetta adds depth and richness, while freshly grated Parmesan and a garnish of parsley provide a balanced finish to this Italian-inspired classic. Ready in just 30 minutes, this spicy pancetta pasta is a deliciously simple option that’s sure to impress. Perfect for fans of spicy pasta recipes and easy gourmet dinners!
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Ingredients
- 400 grams spaghetti
- 150 grams pancetta, diced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 60 milliliters white wine (optional)
- 60 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 120 milliliters pasta water
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 milliliters of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the crispy pancetta with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 3
In the same skillet with the rendered pancetta fat and olive oil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant and golden, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4
If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the alcohol evaporate and the liquid reduce slightly.
Step 5
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the flavored oil. Stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce that clings to the pasta.
Step 6
Add the crispy pancetta back into the skillet and toss well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
Step 8
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your Crushed Red Pepper and Pancetta Pasta with additional Parmesan if desired!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (842.0g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1722.2 |
| Total Fat 97.1g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 33.9g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 165mg | 0% |
| Sodium 5645.5mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 133.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 8.4g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 4.6g | |
| Protein 70.1g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 766.9mg | 0% |
| Iron 9.4mg | 0% |
| Potassium 671.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories