If you’re craving a rich, comforting pasta dish with bold flavors, Mucci’s Bucatini is the perfect choice! This dish features thick bucatini pasta coated in a luscious tomato-based sauce with garlic, pancetta, and a touch of spice, creating a mouthwatering balance of savory and slightly smoky flavors. With a silky, cheesy finish, this pasta is a must-try for lovers of Italian cuisine.
Ingredients:
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 oz pancetta (or bacon), diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28 oz) can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust as needed)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz bucatini pasta
- Salt (for boiling water)
For Serving:
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Extra red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bucatini:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the bucatini 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
- Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and pancetta. Sauté until it becomes crispy and releases its fat (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add the onion and cook until soft, then stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, followed by salt, black pepper, sugar (if using), and oregano.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained bucatini directly into the sauce.
- Pour in ¼ cup of reserved pasta water and toss to coat.
- Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, adding more pasta water if needed for a silky texture.
4. Serve and Garnish:
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Pecorino Romano.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra red pepper flakes for heat.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with garlic bread and a fresh side salad.
- Pair with a bold red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese.
- Add grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
This Mucci’s Bucatini is simple yet packed with deep, rich flavors—perfect for an elegant dinner or a cozy night in! 🍝🔥