Spaghetti All Amatriciane
A hearty Italian pasta dish featuring a savory bacon and tomato sauce, balanced with onions and a touch of spice, perfect for comforting weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion and bacon together until onion is translucent and bacon is slightly brown.
- Add tomato paste and fry a little. Add wine and cook down to half.
- Add canned chopped tomatoes, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until tomatoes fall apart and juice is almost gone.
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese.
- Cook and drain spaghetti.
- Toss spaghetti with the sauce.
- Pass the grated cheese to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using guanciale instead of bacon, which is traditional in authentic Amatriciana. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also enhance the sauce's depth. Make sure to cook the wine down sufficiently to avoid a raw alcohol taste, similar to how you would in Rigatoni Ala Carbonara.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish topped with ample fresh grated Parmesan cheese for a delightful finish. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Tangy Italian Beans or a robust red wine that complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti All Amatriciane contains roughly 338 calories, with 19g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (73% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 909mg per serving (40% 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 dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt the recipe by substituting the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a savory umami flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of wine for added depth without meat. Just remember that the texture will differ slightly from the traditional version.
What type of wine should I use?
A dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, works best in this recipe for balance. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the dish's flavor. If you prefer, red wine can also be used, but it may change the sauce's color.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, simply increase or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper according to your taste. If you want to add heat without cayenne, consider using red pepper flakes instead. Always taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spiciness.
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).