Pastasciutta(Pronounced Pastashuta; Old Italian Recipe)
A hearty Italian pasta dish featuring tender noodles in a rich tomato sauce, complemented by Parmesan cheese and optional meat, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up the onion; simmer with butter in a pan until the onion is tender.
- Add the canned tomatoes (cut up), water, and tomato paste; stir well.
- Simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, adding cooked meat if desired.
- Add cooked noodles and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh tomatoes when in season instead of canned for a vibrant flavor. If you're out of rigatoni, any pasta shape will work, but spaghetti is a classic choice here. For added depth, consider incorporating herbs like basil or oregano. If you want a heartier dish, adding cooked hamburger meat or sausage enhances the flavor profile. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pastasciutta with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a nice touch. Pair it with a glass of red wine for a delightful Italian experience. For a larger spread, consider including Antipasto Rice Salad as a refreshing side dish that complements the pasta beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the pan to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method helps maintain the sauce's consistency and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastasciutta(Pronounced Pastashuta; Old Italian Recipe) contains roughly 503 calories, with 18g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1204mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. You can also incorporate plant-based protein options like lentils or chickpeas to make it heartier while keeping it vegetarian.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water can help thicken the sauce quickly without altering the flavor. Just stir it in and let it cook for a few more minutes.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan, consider using Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You could also use grated cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).