Spaghetti All'Amatriciana(Spaghetti With Bacon, Onion And Tomato)
Spaghetti All'Amatriciana features savory bacon, aromatic onions, and rich tomato sauce, creating a hearty Italian dish perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the bacon into short pieces 1/4-inch wide.
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet, stirring often, until browned but not dark and hard.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Discard all the bacon fat from the skillet.
- Cut the onion into thin slices from top to bottom.
- Saute the onion in olive oil until translucent and just beginning to brown.
- Add the whole tomatoes and puree, breaking them apart with a spatula or large spoon.
- Add oregano and basil to the sauce.
- Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked bacon to the sauce.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper or hot sauce to taste.
- Keep the sauce warm until serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use high-quality meaty bacon and imported spaghetti. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried oregano and basil work in a pinch. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. This recipe pairs well with the Best Big-Batch Tomato Sauce for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spaghetti All'Amatriciana with a light green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the dish, while a side of roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition. This recipe also pairs nicely with a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti All'Amatriciana(Spaghetti With Bacon, Onion And Tomato) contains roughly 21 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% 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 use pancetta instead of bacon?
Yes, pancetta is a traditional substitute for bacon in this dish and will provide a similar flavor profile. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time, as pancetta may cook faster. The result will be equally delicious with a more authentic Italian twist.
What if I can't find redpack whole tomatoes?
If redpack whole tomatoes are unavailable, you can use any canned whole tomatoes or even crushed tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using crushed, as they may require less simmering to thicken.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Spaghetti All'Amatriciana is perfect for meal prep. The flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge. Just store the sauce and pasta separately to prevent sogginess. Reheat as needed for a quick and satisfying meal.
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).