Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo is a fiery favorite that brings bold flavors straight to our table. This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with a spicy, tangy sauce that’s both satisfying and easy to make at home. It’s a great way to add some heat to your dinner routine without spending hours in the kitchen.
We love how this recipe balances spice with rich, savory ingredients, making it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy a little kick. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or something special to impress guests, Pasta Diablo delivers on taste and simplicity. Let’s dive into this classic dish and recreate the magic of Carlos O’Kelly’s right in our own kitchens.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo, gathering the right ingredients is essential. Each component plays a key role in delivering the signature spicy and savory flavors that define this dish.
Pasta
We recommend using high-quality pasta that holds sauce well and provides a satisfying texture:
- 12 ounces of penne or rigatoni pasta (uncooked)
- Plenty of water with salt for boiling
Sauce Ingredients
The sauce is the heart of the dish, combining heat and tang in every bite:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Extra virgin preferred |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1 to 1.5 teaspoons | Adjust for desired heat |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Preferably fire-roasted |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | For richness and thickness |
| Chicken broth or vegetable broth | 1/2 cup | Adds depth and moisture |
| Fresh lime juice | 1 tablespoon | Adds tang and brightness |
Protein Options
We enjoy customizing our Pasta Diablo with various proteins. Here are our top picks:
- 1 pound of boneless chicken breast (cubed)
- 12 ounces of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound of lean ground beef or turkey
- For vegetarian options: tofu, firm and cubed, or black beans
Vegetables and Add-Ins
Adding fresh vegetables and extras boosts both texture and nutritional value:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 cup of fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup of sliced black olives (optional for added depth)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Seasonings and Spices
We elevate the bold flavor profile with these essential seasonings:
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin for warmth and earthiness
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for smoky heat
- Optional: ½ teaspoon oregano for herbal notes
By assembling these ingredients as listed, we ensure our Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo Recipe stays true to its fiery and savory reputation.
Equipment Needed
To achieve authentic Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo flavor and texture, assembling the right equipment is essential. Each tool helps us execute precise cooking steps and balance the dish’s signature heat and savoriness.
- Large Pot
For boiling the pasta until al dente. Choose a pot large enough to allow free movement of the pasta for even cooking.
- Skillet or Sauté Pan
We need a wide skillet with a heavy bottom to sauté the aromatics and create the spicy tomato Diablo sauce. A non-stick or stainless steel pan works well to prevent burning.
- Colander
To drain the pasta efficiently without losing any of the starchy water that can be reserved to adjust sauce consistency.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Essential for stirring the sauce and tossing the pasta without scratching cookware, allowing gentle folding of all ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy is crucial, especially with spices like crushed red pepper flakes and smoked paprika to maintain the perfect balance of heat.
- Knife and Cutting Board
For chopping garlic, onions, bell peppers, and any protein. Sharp knives expedite prep and keep ingredients intact.
- Can Opener
Needed for opening diced tomato cans which form the base of the sauce.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil pasta | Use plenty of salted water |
| Skillet / Sauté Pan | Cook sauce and sauté aromatics | Prefer heavy-bottomed |
| Colander | Drain pasta | Reserve pasta water if needed |
| Wooden Spoon / Spatula | Stir and toss ingredients | Protect cookware surfaces |
| Measuring Tools | Measure spices and liquids | Ensure recipe accuracy |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Prep vegetables and proteins | Use sharp for clean cuts |
| Can Opener | Open canned diced tomatoes | Avoid metal shards |
Having this specialized equipment ready streamlines the cooking process and guarantees our Pasta Diablo delivers bold spicy heat combined with perfect pasta texture every time.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, it’s essential to complete some basic prep work that sets the foundation for our Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo recipe. Proper preparation ensures each element blends perfectly to create that signature spicy and savory flavor.
Preparing the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. We recommend using 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water to season the pasta properly. For authenticity, choose penne or rigatoni pasta as they hold the sauce well.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Water volume | 4 quarts |
| Salt amount | 1 tablespoon |
| Pasta type | Penne or Rigatoni |
| Cooking time | 10-12 minutes (al dente) |
Once boiled, drain the pasta in a colander but reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help us adjust the sauce consistency later for that perfect silky texture.
Chopping Vegetables
Fresh vegetables are key to enhancing the dish’s texture and flavor. Here’s how we prep:
- Onions: Peel and finely dice 1 medium onion.
- Bell Peppers: Core and dice 1 large bell pepper (red or yellow works best for color and sweetness).
- Garlic: Mince 3-4 cloves for robust aroma.
- Optional Corn: Drain and rinse ½ cup of canned corn or use fresh kernels if preferred.
By chopping these ingredients evenly, we ensure uniform cooking and balanced flavor in every bite.
Preparing the Protein
The protein choice—chicken, shrimp, or ground meat—adds heartiness to our Pasta Diablo. Preparation varies slightly by type:
| Protein Type | Preparation Steps |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | Cut into bite-sized pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper |
| Shrimp | Peel and devein, pat dry |
| Ground Meat | Use directly, breaking up any clumps during cooking |
Season proteins beforehand with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. Having them ready helps us sear or sauté quickly, locking in juiciness and preventing overcooking.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to bring Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo to life with its signature spicy and savory flavors.
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water to season the pasta.
- Add 12 ounces of penne or rigatoni to the boiling water.
- Cook pasta for 10-12 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining pasta in a colander.
- Set pasta aside and keep warm.
| Step | Action | Measurement | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water boiling | Add salt | 1 tbsp salt per 4 quarts water | Until boiling |
| Pasta cooking | Penne or rigatoni | 12 ounces | 10-12 minutes |
| Pasta water reserving | Before draining | 1 cup | N/A |
Making the Diablo Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 medium finely diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add 1 large diced bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir well to toast spices.
- Pour in 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices followed by 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth.
- Simmer sauce on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
- Adjust consistency by gradually adding reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Cooking the Protein and Vegetables
- For chicken: cut 1 pound into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
- For shrimp: peel and devein about 1 pound of medium shrimp.
- For ground meat: use 1 pound broken into small chunks.
- In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add prepared protein and cook until browned and cooked through:
- Chicken: 6-8 minutes
- Shrimp: 3-5 minutes
- Ground meat: 5-7 minutes
- Add ½ cup corn (fresh or canned) while protein finishes cooking.
- Combine protein and vegetables with the simmered Diablo sauce.
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce mixture.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or grated cheese as desired and serve immediately.
Assembling the Pasta Diablo
Now that we have our perfectly cooked pasta, vibrant sauce, and protein ready, it is time to bring Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo together. This step ensures every bite bursts with balanced heat and savory goodness.
Combining Pasta with Sauce and Ingredients
First, we drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water to help adjust the sauce consistency later. Next, we add the pasta directly into the skillet containing the rich, spicy Diablo sauce along with the cooked protein and sautéed vegetables.
We toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat each piece of penne or rigatoni with the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick or clings unevenly, we gradually add reserved pasta water, stirring until we reach the perfect silky texture that clings well without being watery.
Key to this step is ensuring the pasta absorbs the flavors by letting it cook together with the sauce over low heat for 1–2 minutes. This melding creates that classic, fiery flavor profile that defines Pasta Diablo.
Final Seasoning Adjustments
Before serving our Pasta Diablo, we carefully taste and adjust seasonings to balance the bold spices. Here are the final seasoning checks we perform:
| Seasoning Element | Adjustment Tip |
|---|---|
| Salt | Add in small increments to enhance flavors without overpowering. |
| Crushed Red Pepper | Increase for more heat or reduce if prefer milder spice. |
| Smoked Paprika | Add a pinch to deepen smoky notes. |
| Fresh Herbs | Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley for fresh brightness. |
| Lime Juice | Squeeze a little for tangy contrast and brightness. |
Once satisfied with the seasoning, we garnish with grated cheese like Cotija or Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This finishing touch adds complexity and an appealing visual contrast.
By meticulously combining ingredients and adjusting flavors at this stage, we ensure that our Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo delivers an unforgettable experience of spicy, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
For Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo, pairing and presentation play a crucial role in amplifying its vibrant flavors and captivating heat. Here are some expert serving suggestions to elevate our dish:
- Complementary Side Dishes:
Pair the Pasta Diablo with a crunchy side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light citrus vinaigrette. The acidity and freshness will balance the spiciness perfectly. Alternatively, garlic bread or warm crusty baguette slices provide a satisfying contrast in texture while helping to soak up the bold sauce.
- Beverage Pairings:
To cool down the fiery notes, serve with crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, chilled sparkling water infused with lime or cucumber refreshes the palate. Bold hoppy beers like IPAs also complement the smoky spice profile well.
- Garnishing Tips:
Before serving, we recommend adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or flat-leaf parsley to brighten the dish and add an herbal lift. A few shavings of Parmesan or Cotija cheese lend creamy saltiness that rounds out the heat. For an extra touch of flavor, squeeze a light drizzle of fresh lime juice on top.
- Serving Temperature:
Serve the Pasta Diablo immediately while piping hot to ensure the sauce’s depth remains vivid and the pasta retains perfect tenderness.
| Serving Element | Recommendation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Side Dish | Mixed green salad with citrus vinaigrette | Refreshes and balances spice |
| Bread | Garlic bread or crusty baguette | Adds crunch and soaks up sauce |
| Wine | Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio | Complements heat with crisp acidity |
| Non-alcoholic Drink | Sparkling water with lime or cucumber | Refreshes the palate |
| Garnishes | Cilantro, parsley, Parmesan, Cotija cheese, lime juice | Adds brightness, creaminess, zest |
“A great serving setup turns every bite of our Pasta Diablo into an experience — balancing the fiery spice with fresh, creamy, and crunchy elements creates an unforgettable meal.”
By following these Serving Suggestions we ensure our Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo shines as the centerpiece of our table, delivering exciting layers of flavor with every bite.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo with minimal last-minute effort, preparation is key. Here are several make-ahead tips to help us streamline the cooking process without sacrificing the bold, spicy flavor that defines this dish.
Prep the Sauce in Advance
- Prepare the Diablo Sauce: We can make the spicy tomato sauce up to 2 days ahead. Sauté the onions, garlic, and bell peppers with crushed red pepper flakes and spices, then simmer the sauce with diced tomatoes and broth.
- Store Properly: Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Cook Pasta Ahead of Time
- Boil Al Dente: Cook the pasta 1 day before serving, using salted water and timing it for al dente (10-12 minutes).
- Cool and Store: Drain and cool the pasta quickly with cold water to stop cooking, then drain again. Toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Protein Preparation
- Chicken or Shrimp: Cut and season the protein, then store in the fridge for 1 day before cooking.
- Ground Meat: Portion out and keep refrigerated, ready to cook fresh for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Combining & Reheating
On serving day, combine the reheated sauce with freshly cooked protein and the pre-cooked pasta. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
| Make-Ahead Component | Storage Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Diablo Sauce | Up to 2 days (fridge) | Reheat gently to preserve flavor |
| Cooked Pasta | Up to 1 day (fridge) | Toss with olive oil to prevent sticking |
| Prepped Protein | Up to 1 day (fridge) | Cook fresh on serving day for best texture & taste |
Quick Reheating Quote
“Reheating with care keeps the sauce vibrant and the pasta perfectly textured — a must for preserving the signature heat and savory balance of Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo.”
Bonus Tip: Freezing
If we want to prepare Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo farther in advance, the sauce freezes well up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stove before combining with freshly cooked pasta and protein.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure that our Pasta Diablo is bursting with flavor and ready to serve – making any meal occasion hassle-free and delicious.
Conclusion
Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo is a vibrant dish that brings bold flavors and satisfying heat to the table. With its straightforward preparation and versatile ingredients, it’s a fantastic recipe for anyone looking to spice up their pasta nights.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you can confidently recreate this classic at home, impressing family and friends alike. Whether you’re cooking for a quick dinner or a special gathering, Pasta Diablo delivers a memorable taste experience every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo?
Carlos O’Kelly’s Pasta Diablo is a spicy, tangy pasta dish featuring penne or rigatoni cooked al dente and tossed in a flavorful sauce made with garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, diced tomatoes, broth, and bold spices like cumin and smoked paprika.
What ingredients are essential for making Pasta Diablo?
Key ingredients include high-quality penne or rigatoni pasta, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, and seasonings such as cumin and smoked paprika. Protein options like chicken, shrimp, or ground meat enhance the dish.
What equipment do I need to cook Pasta Diablo?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a heavy-bottomed skillet for sautéing and making the sauce, a colander to drain pasta, measuring tools, a knife and cutting board, and a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring.
How do I prepare the protein for Pasta Diablo?
Chicken should be cut into bite-sized, seasoned pieces; shrimp peeled and deveined; ground meat used directly while breaking up clumps. Proper prep ensures even cooking and maximum flavor.
Can I make Pasta Diablo ahead of time?
Yes, the Diablo sauce can be made up to two days in advance and stored airtight, pasta can be cooked a day before and tossed with olive oil, and protein prepped early. The sauce also freezes well for up to three months.
What are good side dishes to serve with Pasta Diablo?
Pair Pasta Diablo with a crunchy side salad or garlic bread to balance its spice. Crisp white wines or sparkling water complement the flavors well.
How do I adjust the sauce consistency?
Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water after boiling. Add this gradually to the sauce while tossing with pasta to reach your desired consistency.
What garnishes enhance Pasta Diablo?
Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro, grated cheese, and a squeeze of lime juice brighten the dish and add visual appeal.
How long should I cook the pasta for Pasta Diablo?
Cook penne or rigatoni for 10-12 minutes in salted boiling water until al dente for the best texture.
What makes Pasta Diablo flavorful and spicy?
The combination of sautéed garlic, onions, bell peppers, crushed red pepper flakes, cumin, smoked paprika, and simmered diced tomatoes creates its signature bold, spicy, and savory flavor.