How to Cook Spaghetti Al Amatraciana in Easy Steps

Updated
2 min read

Spaghetti al amatraciana –Discover the delightful flavors of traditional Italian cuisine with this Spaghetti Al Amatraciana recipe. This beloved dish from the Lazio region is known for its rich tomato sauce, savory guanciale, and a hint of heat. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will transport you straight to the charming streets of Rome.

Spaghetti Al Amatraciana

To start, let’s take a look at a tempting visual of the dish that showcases its mouthwatering appeal.

Spaghetti Al Amatraciana

Ingredients:

  • 400g spaghetti
  • 150g guanciale (or pancetta, if needed), diced
  • 1 can (400g) of high-quality crushed tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 60g Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced guanciale and cook until it turns golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and red chili flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
  5. Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, and then drain the pasta. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce.
  6. Toss the spaghetti in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky consistency.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with additional cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy this inviting dish as it provides a harmonious blend of flavors that elevate any dining experience. Buon appetito!