Spaghetti alla Carrettiera

Spaghetti alla Carrettiera is a rustic Italian pasta dish made with al dente spaghetti, sautéed garlic, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and Pecorino Romano cheese, finished with a crunchy topping of toasted breadcrumbs.

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 14

Total Time 24

Servings Servings

Calories 540kcal

Author Meghan Birnbaum

Equipment

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large frying pan or skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring spoons
Colander
Cutting board
Knife
Grater (for the Pecorino Romano)
Ladle or heatproof cup (to reserve pasta water)

Ingredients

1 lb Spaghetti quadrato/Chitarra
Small bunch of fresh parsley chopped (about ½ cup)
3-4 garlic cloves chopped
1-2 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
8-9 teaspoon Pecorino Romano grated
1 cup breadcrumbs
Extra virgin olive oil EVOO

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Instructions

Prepare the Breadcrumbs:

Heat a frypan over medium heat and add a few drizzles of EVOO (about 2-3 tablespoons).
Add the breadcrumbs and toss with a wooden spoon for a few minutes until they become brown and crispy. Remove from the stove and set aside.

Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 9-11 minutes).

Prepare the Sauce:

While the pasta is cooking, heat a generous amount of EVOO (about ¼ cup) in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden (be careful not to burn the garlic).

Combine and Serve:

Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the spaghetti.
Add the drained spaghetti to the pan with the garlic and red pepper flakes.
Toss to coat the pasta in the oil, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
Add the chopped parsley and toss again.
Remove from heat and mix in the grated Pecorino Romano.
Serve immediately, topped with the crispy breadcrumbs.

Video

Notes

Storage: Leftover Spaghetti alla Carrettiera can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Freezing: Spaghetti alla Carrettiera can be frozen for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating following the instructions above.

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