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roman amatriciana pasta recipe

Amatriciana Pasta Recipe From Rome

This classic Roman pasta dish combines crispy bacon, sweet onions, and tangy tomatoes with a gentle kick of chili flakes. The rich, slightly spicy sauce clings perfectly to rigatoni or penne, creating a deeply satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 6 ounces rigatoni pasta or penne
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • 1 ounce butter
  • 14 ounces chopped tomatoes San Marzano preferred
  • 2 medium onions finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red wine
  • 8 ounces unsmoked streaky bacon chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Large frying pan
  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the fat to render.
  2. Add the finely chopped onions and chili flakes to the pan. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are completely softened and the bacon is nicely browned.
  3. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, red wine, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
  4. Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni or penne in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (still with a slight bite).
  5. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the simmering sauce over the pasta.
  6. Add the butter and stir until it melts completely, creating a silky, glossy sauce that coats the pasta.
  7. Divide between warm plates and finish with freshly ground black pepper and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For a more authentic version, substitute guanciale (cured pork jowl) for the bacon if you can find it. The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, just reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or simple garlic bruschetta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Leftover Amatriciana sauce freezes well for up to 3 months - perfect for quick weeknight dinners.