Jon and Vinny Spicy Fusilli Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

If you’re craving a pasta dish that perfectly balances heat, creaminess, and fresh flavors, look no further than the Jon and Vinny Spicy Fusilli. This recipe is a fantastic twist on classic Italian comfort food, showcasing the signature style of Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, the renowned chefs behind the popular LA eatery Jon & Vinny’s.

The spicy, garlicky tomato sauce clings beautifully to the curly fusilli pasta, creating an addictive dish that’s both simple and sophisticated.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this vibrant recipe delivers punchy flavor without complicated steps. With just a handful of staples and a bit of chili kick, you get a rich, satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet fresh.

Perfectly paired with crisp greens or a chilled glass of white wine, it’s a dish you’ll want to return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Fusilli recipe is a game-changer for pasta lovers who enjoy a little heat in their meals. Here’s why it stands out:

• Bold yet balanced flavors: The combination of garlic, chili flakes, and tangy tomatoes creates a sauce that’s vibrant without overpowering the pasta.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to add veggies, proteins, or vegan cheese for a personalized touch.
• Comfort food with a twist: The fusilli’s spiral shape holds onto every bit of sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
• Inspired by chefs: Bringing a taste of Jon & Vinny’s LA kitchen to your home, this recipe offers restaurant-quality flavor without fuss.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fusilli pasta (preferably dried)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand or with a spoon
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan alternative)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for richness)
• Fresh lemon juice, a squeeze (optional for brightness)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Grater for Parmesan
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Cook the fusilli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Prepare the sauce base: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden but not burnt.
3. Add chili flakes: Stir in the red chili flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release their flavor.
4. Create the tomato sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring well to combine with garlic and chili oil. Simmer on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Season the sauce: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you prefer a richer sauce, stir in the butter now until melted and combined.
6. Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained fusilli to the skillet along with 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently over low heat to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Add cheese and basil: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh basil, folding gently to combine and melt the cheese into the sauce.
8. Adjust flavors: Taste the pasta and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired to brighten the flavors. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve immediately: Plate the spicy fusilli piping hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan if you like. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“Don’t rush the garlic — gently sauté it to infuse the oil without burning. This step creates the foundation of flavor for the sauce.”

• Make it vegan: Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of traditional cheese and skip the butter or use a vegan substitute.
• Add protein: Toss in cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
• Veggie boost: Stir in sautéed spinach, roasted peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Heat level: Modify the chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance — add more for a fiery kick or reduce for subtle warmth.
• Fresh tomatoes: If tomatoes are in season, use fresh ripe tomatoes peeled and crushed instead of canned for a fresher taste.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This spicy fusilli is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heat
• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to mop up the sauce
• Lightly roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus
• A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Italian red like Chianti
• For a casual meal, serve alongside a simple antipasto platter featuring olives, cured meats, and cheeses

Conclusion

The Jon and Vinny Spicy Fusilli recipe is a delightful way to bring bold, authentic flavors into your kitchen with minimal effort. Its combination of spicy garlic, tangy tomato, and creamy cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this pasta is a fantastic choice that elevates everyday ingredients into something special.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish proves that great cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it endlessly — from vegan adaptations to protein-packed variations.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more delicious ideas like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for inspiration.

Next time you want a pasta that packs a punch, this spicy fusilli will be your go-to for flavor, comfort, and satisfaction all in one bowl.

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