When it comes to pasta, there are so many delicious options to choose from. But sometimes you want a dish that’s a little bit special, something that will elevate your meal game and impress your guests. That’s where casarecce comes in – this classic Italian pasta shape is the perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and ingredients. From spicy arrabbiata sauces to rich and creamy Alfredo, there are countless ways to prepare casarecce. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious casarecce recipes that are perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish for a holiday gathering, these recipes have got you covered.
Spicy Casarecce Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil
This classic Italian dish combines the spicy kick of arrabbiata sauce with the springtime freshness of basil, all wrapped up in a deliciously chewy casereccce pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large saucepan, combine arrabbiata sauce and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Add chopped basil leaves and stir to combine.
4. Toss cooked casarecce pasta with the spicy basil sauce until well coated.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper, as needed.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Sauce heating time: 2-3 minutes
Creamy Casarecce Alfredo with Parmesan Cheese
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy alfredo sauce made with Parmesan cheese, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the best of Italy’s comfort foods: casarecce pasta, buttery garlic, and nutty Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, creamy sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed) in a large serving bowl. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic
This recipe combines the classic Italian pasta dish with the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes and pungency of garlic, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 lbs cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted cherry tomatoes, and garlic in the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Casarecce Carbonara with Pancetta
A classic Italian dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of crispy pancetta and savory casarecce pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy and golden brown.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add reserved pasta water to achieve desired creamy consistency.
6. Stir in cooked pancetta and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lemon Casarecce with Shrimp and Asparagus
This vibrant and flavorful pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon zest with succulent shrimp and tender asparagus, all wrapped up in a delightful casarecce shape.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and asparagus mixture. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Casarecce Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant pasta dish, showcasing the best of the season’s fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, garlic, vegetable broth, and lemon juice. Simmer until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rich Casarecce Bolognese with Ground Beef
This hearty, slow-cooked pasta dish is a classic Italian staple, packed with tender ground beef and rich flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes
– 1 cup casarecce pasta
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in tomato paste, tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer sauce for 20-25 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Combine cooked pasta with sauce; serve hot topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Casarecce with Pesto Sauce and Pine Nuts
This recipe brings together the perfect union of Casarecce pasta, rich pesto sauce, and crunchy pine nuts. In just a few minutes, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz Casarecce pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see recipe below)
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Pesto Sauce Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and pine nuts. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
3. Add cooked Casarecce pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with pesto sauce and pine nuts. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
This Sicilian-inspired pasta dish combines the nutty flavor of casarecce with the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and the earthiness of spinach. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the casarecce according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine the cooked casarecce and tomato-spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Sauce
This recipe combines the traditional Italian pasta dish, casarecce, with a rich and creamy mushroom and thyme sauce, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic in a little olive oil until tender and fragrant.
3. Add the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until the cream simmers slightly.
4. Combine the cooked casarecce pasta with the mushroom and cream sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Mushroom and cream sauce preparation: 10-12 minutes
– Total cooking time: 18-22 minutes
Casarecce with Spicy Italian Sausage and Peppers
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of spicy Italian sausage, sweet peppers, and tangy tomato sauce with the rugged texture of casarecce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound casarecce
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook casarecce according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add sliced peppers and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until peppers are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, reserved pasta water, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked casarecce with sausage and pepper mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Grilled Chicken and Pesto
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines grilled chicken, pesto, and the unique texture of casarecce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic; grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook casarecce according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, combine grilled chicken and pesto; toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using); toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Roasted Eggplant and Ricotta
A Sicilian classic gets a flavorful twist with the addition of roasted eggplant and creamy ricotta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss eggplant slices with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine roasted eggplant and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta, eggplant mixture, and ricotta cheese in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped basil (if using).
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Cooking time: approximately 45-50 minutes.
Casarecce with Garlic Butter and Shrimp
This classic Italian dish combines tender shrimp with rich garlic butter and the perfect pasta shape – casarecce. In just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved cooking liquid, and garlic butter mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Creamy Gorgonzola and Walnuts
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this delightful pasta dish, featuring casarecce, a type of Italian spiral pasta, tossed with creamy gorgonzola cheese and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the casarecce according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and stir until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in crumbled Gorgonzola cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked casarecce to the creamy sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Stir in chopped walnuts and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Fresh Basil and Cherry Tomatoes
This Sicilian-inspired pasta dish is a perfect summer evening meal, combining the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-basil mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Spicy Calabrian Chili Sauce
This recipe combines the Italian pasta shape casarecce with a bold and spicy sauce made with Calabrian chili peppers. The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili sauce (such as Nduja or similar)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the Calabrian chili sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir until combined with the sauce.
6. Add the cooked casarecce pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the spicy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This Italian-inspired dish combines tender casarecce pasta with a vibrant and flavorful roasted red pepper sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The sweetness of the peppers pairs perfectly with the slight chewiness of the pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
4. Cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
6. Add the roasted red pepper pieces to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toss the cooked pasta with the red pepper sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Casarecce with Italian Meatballs and Marinara
This hearty pasta dish combines the classic flavors of Italy – rich marinara sauce, savory meatballs, and perfectly cooked casarecce. Served hot, it’s a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook casarecce according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large skillet, combine crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and stir to coat.
8. Combine cooked casarecce with the meatball mixture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Casarecce with Truffle Oil and Parmesan
This recipe combines the comforting Italian pasta shape, casarecce, with the earthy flavor of truffle oil and the salty richness of parmesan. The result is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the casarecce.
3. In a large skillet, combine the truffle oil and reserved pasta cooking water. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
4. Add the cooked casarecce pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the truffle oil mixture.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of Casarecce pasta with these 20 mouth-watering recipes for every occasion. From spicy arrabbiata to creamy Alfredo, and from savory carbonara to zesty shrimp and asparagus, there’s a dish to suit any taste. Explore the world of flavors with roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, pancetta, lemon, and more. These delectable recipes are sure to impress your family and friends, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party. Get cooking with these delicious Casarecce recipes!
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