Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta

Spicy Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the iconic flavors of Carbone’s Spicy Rigatoni right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only simple but also perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any casual gathering. The creamy tomato sauce is bursting with flavor and features a pleasant kick from red pepper flakes, making it irresistible for spice lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, tomato paste, and spices creates a sauce that’s both creamy and full of depth.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with grilled chicken or vegetables for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and spicy kick, this pasta is sure to impress guests at any gathering.
• Garnish Options: Customize with fresh herbs or cheese to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without crowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients and creating the rich sauce.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta while keeping it intact, ensuring the right texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 16 ounces cavatappi noodles, (cooked according to package instructions)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 teaspoons garlic, (minced)
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
– 1 cup pasta water, (reserved from cooked pasta)
– fresh parsley, (for garnish)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the cavatappi noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 2: Reserve Pasta Water

Before draining the noodles, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. Set the cooked noodles aside once drained.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the tomato paste, heavy whipping cream, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Adjust Sauce Consistency

If needed, gradually add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.

Step 6: Mix Noodles with Sauce

Add the cooked cavatappi noodles into the sauce. Mix thoroughly until all noodles are coated well with the spicy sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta!

How to Serve Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta

Serving Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta can elevate your dining experience. With the right accompaniments, you can create a delightful meal that impresses family and friends.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for a classic pairing. The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the spicy pasta beautifully.

Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness to your meal. The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons balance the richness of the pasta.

Wine Selection

• Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti. Its acidity pairs well with the tomato-based sauce, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

Cheese Topping

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over each serving for an extra layer of flavor. It adds creaminess and depth to the spicy sauce.

Extra Spice

• Chili Oil Drizzle: For those who love heat, drizzle some chili oil over each plate before serving. This enhances the spice while adding a beautiful presentation.

Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Oregano: Sprinkle fresh basil or oregano on top for added freshness. These herbs provide a pop of color and aromatic flavor to the dish.

How to Perfect Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta

Perfecting Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta is all about attention to detail and enhancing flavors. Here are some tips to achieve that perfect dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil to enhance the overall taste of your sauce.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure.
• Pasta Cooking Time: Cook your cavatappi until al dente for the best texture. This prevents mushiness when combined with the sauce.
• Reserve Enough Pasta Water: Make sure you reserve at least one cup of pasta water. This starchy water helps to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
• Mix Well: When combining noodles and sauce, ensure even coating by mixing thoroughly. This guarantees that every bite is flavorful.
• Serve Immediately: Serve your spicy pasta right after preparation for optimal taste and texture, as it tastes best when hot.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta can enhance your meal experience immensely. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad: A refreshing blend of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil that brings a light contrast to the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of your main dish.
3. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an enticing starter before diving into pasta.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle offers a tasty appetizer that pairs wonderfully with Italian flavors.
5. Creamy Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a smooth base that soaks up any extra sauce from your spicy pasta.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make for an elegant side that enhances your meal’s Italian flair.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles alongside for added fiber without sacrificing flavor.
8. Eggplant Parmesan Bites: Crispy eggplant slices layered with marinara sauce and cheese serve as a delicious companion dish full of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long can lead to mushy noodles. Always follow package instructions and taste for doneness.

• Not Reserving Pasta Water: Forgetting to save pasta water can affect the sauce’s consistency. Remember to set aside at least 1 cup of the cooking water before draining.

• Burning Garlic: Cooking garlic too long can make it bitter. Sauté it for just about a minute until fragrant and then add other ingredients quickly.

• Skipping Fresh Parsley: Garnishing with parsley is essential as it adds freshness. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the dish visually and flavor-wise.

• Ignoring Sauce Thickness: Using too little or too much reserved pasta water can alter the sauce thickness. Add water slowly, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to moisten.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta special?

This recipe captures the essence of Carbone’s famous dish by blending rich flavors with a spicy kick that is both satisfying and comforting.

Can I customize Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta?

Absolutely! You can adjust the level of spiciness by altering the amount of red pepper flakes or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To lighten it up, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While cavatappi is recommended, you can substitute with other shapes like penne or rigatoni based on your preference.

How do I prevent my sauce from curdling?

Make sure to cook on low heat after adding cream and stir continuously. This helps maintain a smooth texture without curdling.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta is an easy yet indulgent dish perfect for any dinner table. Its creamy tomato sauce and spicy notes offer a delightful experience that you can customize to your liking. Whether you prefer more heat or additional veggies, this recipe allows for versatility that caters to all tastes. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of restaurant-quality pasta at home!