Looking for a delicious and flavorful pasta dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than Casarecce, a type of Italian pasta known for its distinctive twisted shape. In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouth-watering Casarecce recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From classic combinations like Spicy Arrabbiata Casarecce with Fresh Basil and Creamy Pesto Casarecce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, to more adventurous options like Garlic Butter Shrimp Casarecce and Roasted Vegetable Casarecce with Balsamic Glaze, there’s a recipe on this list for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these Casarecce recipes are sure to satisfy.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 19 unique and flavorful Casarecce recipes, including ingredients, cooking instructions, and beautiful photography to inspire your culinary creativity. So grab a fork and get ready to take a taste journey around Italy with these delectable Casarecce dishes!
Spicy Arrabbiata Casarecce with Fresh Basil
This vibrant pasta dish combines the spicy kick of arrabbiata sauce with the creamy goodness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a tube-shaped casarecce noodle. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine arrabbiata sauce and chopped basil. Heat over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
3. Drain cooked pasta and add to the saucepan with the arrabbiata mixture. Toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Pesto Casarecce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of cream and pesto with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
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, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pesto and stir until smooth.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked casarecce pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Casarecce
This recipe combines the simplicity of shrimp with the richness of garlic butter, all wrapped up in a delicious Italian-inspired casarecce pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 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 large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Casarecce with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and colorful dish, featuring roasted vegetables and a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine roasted vegetables with cooked pasta.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Casarecce
Brighten up your mealtime with this citrusy and aromatic pasta dish, featuring succulent chicken and a medley of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add parsley, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with herb mixture.
7. Combine pasta, reserved pasta water, and chicken mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Casarecce alla Vodka with Pancetta
This recipe combines the creamy richness of vodka-infused tomato sauce with the smoky, savory flavor of pancetta, all wrapped up in a delicious Casarecce pasta. It’s a unique and satisfying twist on traditional spaghetti carbonara.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) Casarecce pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vodka
– 28 oz (794g) canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup (120g) 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 pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add garlic and vodka to the same skillet. Cook for 1 minute, then add crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Casarecce Bake
Discover the creamy delight of this Italian-inspired casserole, packed with tender casarecce pasta, wilted spinach, and rich ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
5. Add the wilted spinach mixture to the pasta mixture; mix until fully incorporated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Casarecce with Burrata
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil with the creamy delight of burrata cheese. Perfect for a warm summer evening, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz burrata cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with tomato-basil mixture.
6. Cut burrata cheese into small pieces and place on top of pasta.
7. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Casarecce
This spicy sausage and kale casarecce recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, all in one pot. With its bold spices and nutrients-packed kale, this dish will become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in kale, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add pasta and Parmesan cheese. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente, about 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Casarecce with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
This recipe combines the Italian pasta shape Casarecce with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. The combination of earthy mushrooms and smooth cream is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with mushroom sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Style Casarecce with Fresh Mozzarella
Experience the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the earthiness of basil in a delicious Casarecce pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 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, 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 caramelize.
3. Arrange the cooked casarecce pasta on a serving plate or individual plates. Top with the sliced mozzarella cheese, cherry tomato mixture, and chopped basil.
4. Drizzle with some reserved pasta water if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce Pasta Primavera with Zucchini and Carrots
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and delicious pasta dish, featuring casarecce pasta tossed with sautéed zucchini, carrots, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. 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 garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add zucchini and carrots; cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Casarecce with Broccoli
This classic Italian-American dish gets a twist with the addition of crunchy broccoli and unique casarecce pasta. Rich and creamy, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.
5. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the cream sauce. Toss until well coated. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Spicy Calabrian Chili Sauce
This Sicilian-inspired pasta dish combines the curved, tubular shape of casarecce with the bold flavors of spicy Calabrian chili sauce. The result is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili sauce (hot or mild, depending on your preference)
– 1 clove garlic, 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 heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the Calabrian chili sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked casarecce pasta to the skillet and toss with the spicy sauce until well coated.
6. 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 Garlic and Parmesan
This classic Italian pasta dish combines the chewy texture of casarecce pasta with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and nutty parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) casarecce pasta
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. Cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine the roasted garlic, parmesan cheese, and cooked pasta. Toss over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Seafood Medley Casarecce in White Wine Sauce
A flavorful and elegant pasta dish that combines the richness of seafood with the brightness of white wine. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed seafood and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add white wine and chicken broth to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Stir in oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with seafood and sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the nutty flavor of casarecce with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the creaminess of gorgonzola cheese. A perfect comfort food for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) casarecce
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz (225g) Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 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, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Combine the cooked casarecce, caramelized onions, and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Casarecce with Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and savory dish, featuring casarecce pasta tossed in a rich sun-dried tomato and olive tapenade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) casarecce pasta
– 1/4 cup (60g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp (30g) olive tapenade
– 2 tbsp (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (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, heat olive oil over low heat. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly softened.
3. Stir in olive tapenade. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked casarecce pasta to the saucepan, tossing to combine with the tomato-tapenade mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Herb-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This Italian-inspired dish combines tender pasta with flavorful cherry tomatoes roasted in a mixture of herbs and olive oil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add cherry tomatoes and toss to coat.
4. Spread the tomato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
5. Toss cooked pasta with roasted tomatoes and chopped parsley. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 19 flavorful Casarecce recipes! From classic combinations like Spicy Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil and Creamy Pesto with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, to seafood-inspired dishes like Seafood Medley in White Wine Sauce and Seafood Casarecce, there’s something for everyone. Meat-lovers will enjoy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo, while vegetarians can indulge in Roasted Vegetable and Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Casarecce Bake. And don’t forget the bold flavors of Spicy Sausage and Kale, and Caprese Style with Fresh Mozzarella. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure!
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