Amatriciana (Pasta Sauce)
Rich, tangy, and deeply savory, this Amatriciana sauce clings to pasta with its smoky, peppery charm.
Total: 40 minPrep: 10 minCook: 30 minServes 4Difficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (250+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 ounces pancetta, diced (or substitute with bacon)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Steps
- 1 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 2 Add pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
- 3 Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- 4 Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute.
- 5 Crush tomatoes by hand into the skillet and add salt.
- 6 Simmer sauce, uncovered, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 7 If using, add white wine and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- 8 Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with black pepper to taste.
- 9 Serve over pasta, garnished with fresh parsley.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Can opener
Variations
- Add sautéed broccoli rabe for a hearty twist.
Substitutions
- Substitute pancetta with bacon for a smoky flavor.
Pairings
- A glass of crisp white wine or a smooth red.
- Warm crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
Nutrition
Calories:
250 kcal
Fat:
18 g fat
Carbs:
12 g carbohydrates
Protein:
10 g protein
Fiber:
2 g fiber
Sugar:
6 g sugar
Sodium:
800 mg sodium
Tips
- Use high-quality pancetta for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender before serving.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with spaghetti or bucatini.
- Pair with a simple green salad.
FAQ
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day.