Pasta Carrabba is a classic Italian-American dish that brings rich flavors and comforting textures to our dinner table. Inspired by the popular Carrabba’s Italian Grill, this recipe combines tender pasta with a savory blend of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. It’s a perfect dish for those who crave authentic Italian taste without spending hours in the kitchen.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create a meal that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, Pasta Carrabba always impresses with its bold flavors and satisfying bite. Let’s dive into making this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in our weekly meal rotation.
Ingredients
To create an authentic Pasta Carrabba that bursts with flavor, we use fresh quality ingredients. Below are the essential components categorized for clarity and convenience.
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces of penne pasta or rigatoni, uncooked
- Salt for pasta water, about 1 tablespoon
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup of yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (28-ounce) can of whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of fresh cracked black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped
For Garnish
- 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh basil leaves for extra aroma and presentation
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for finishing
| Ingredient Category | Main Ingredients | Measurements |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | Penne or rigatoni | 12 ounces |
| Pasta Water Seasoning | Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Sauce | Butter, Olive oil, Garlic, Onion, Crushed red pepper flakes | Various (see above) |
| Sauce | San Marzano tomatoes, White wine or broth, Oregano, Salt, Black pepper, Parsley | Various (see above) |
| Garnish | Parmesan cheese, Basil (optional), Olive oil | Various (see above) |
By carefully combining these ingredients, we build the bold and comforting profile that defines our Pasta Carrabba recipe.
Equipment Needed
To craft an authentic Pasta Carrabba recipe that bursts with flavor and comfort, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool helps us execute the recipe precisely, ensuring perfect texture and taste.
Essential Equipment List
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | Boil pasta to al dente |
| Colander | Drain cooked pasta |
| Large skillet | Sauté garlic, tomatoes, and herbs for sauce |
| Wooden spoon | Stir sauce carefully without scratching pan |
| Chef’s knife | Chop garlic, herbs, and other ingredients |
| Cutting board | Provide a safe and clean surface |
| Measuring cups | Accurately measure ingredients |
| Measuring spoons | Measure herbs and spices precisely |
| Mixing bowl | Toss pasta with sauce if needed |
Detailed Equipment Usage
- We start by filling a large pot with salted water to cook the pasta. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and prevents sticking.
- A colander is indispensable to drain the pasta quickly and stop further cooking.
- For the sauce, a large skillet gives us ample surface area to sauté the garlic and tomatoes evenly while preserving their fresh flavors.
- We use a wooden spoon to gently stir the sauce, preserving the texture and avoiding damage to the pan’s surface.
- Precision tools like measuring cups and measuring spoons guarantee we follow the recipe’s detailed ingredient amounts to achieve authentic flavor.
- Preparing ingredients is made easier and safer with a chef’s knife and stable cutting board.
Armed with these tools, we set ourselves up for a seamless cooking experience, allowing the rich aromas and vibrant flavors of Pasta Carrabba to shine through every step.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Pasta Carrabba in advance can save us valuable time while ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to keep the dish fresh and delicious.
Cook Pasta Al Dente Ahead of Time
We recommend cooking the pasta al dente 1 to 2 days before serving. This helps the noodles maintain their firm texture after reheating.
- Boil pasta for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions.
- Drain and toss with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Prepare the Sauce in Advance
The sauce benefits from resting, as this deepens the rich tomato and herb flavors.
- Cook sauce as directed.
- Allow to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating and Combining Tips
To keep the pasta from drying out when reheating, follow these steps:
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| Gently reheat sauce | Use a skillet over medium-low heat |
| Warm pasta | Briefly microwave or warm in boiling water (30 seconds) |
| Combine | Mix pasta with warm sauce just before serving |
| Adjust consistency | Add a splash of reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick |
“Reheating Pasta Carrabba with care ensures each bite bursts with fresh vibrant flavors, just like when it was first made.”
Garnishes and Final Touches
For best results, keep garnishes like fresh parsley, grated Romano cheese, or crushed red pepper flakes separate until serving.
- Store garnishes in small containers or bowls.
- Add them immediately after plating for maximum aroma and flavor impact.
By incorporating these make-ahead tips, we can enjoy our flavorful Pasta Carrabba with minimal stress and maximum satisfaction.
Instructions
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to craft the perfect Pasta Carrabba with rich, authentic flavors and a comforting texture that will delight every bite.
Prep Work
- Chop 4 cloves of garlic finely to release their aromatic oils.
- Dice 1 small onion finely for a subtle sweetness in the sauce.
- Measure 28 ounces of crushed San Marzano tomatoes for a rich, authentic base.
- Gather fresh herbs: 1 tablespoon chopped parsley and 1 teaspoon chopped oregano.
- Prepare the cooking tools to have everything within reach for smooth workflow.
Preparing ingredients in advance ensures the cooking process flows seamlessly and flavors develop evenly.
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add 1 pound of penne or rigatoni pasta to the boiling water.
- Cook the pasta al dente, according to the package instructions — usually about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Drain the pasta in a colander but reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
- Set aside the cooked pasta to combine with the sauce shortly.
Cooking precise al dente pasta forms a sturdy base that absorbs the sauce beautifully without becoming mushy.
Preparing the Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes with their juices.
- Add 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and the chopped herbs (parsley and oregano).
- Simmer uncovered on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken and meld flavors.
Simmering allows the tomatoes and herbs to release their full, rich aroma and create a savory backbone for the dish.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
- Pour in reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a silky, cohesive texture. Use about ¼ to ½ cup as needed.
- Toss gently with a wooden spoon over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes to marry the flavors and coat every piece of pasta.
- Adjust seasoning with salt or pepper to taste.
This step is key to creating that classic Pasta Carrabba mouthfeel: sauce clings to each pasta tube with a luscious finish.
Final Touches and Garnish
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Sprinkle ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese generously over the pasta.
- Top with extra chopped parsley for a fresh, fragrant note.
- Drizzle a little more extra-virgin olive oil for added richness if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the full-bodied, comforting flavors.
| Step | Purpose | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Work | Prepare ingredients | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Pasta | Cook pasta al dente | 10–12 minutes |
| Preparing the Sauce | Build sauce with aroma | 15–20 minutes |
| Combining Pasta and Sauce | Marry flavors | 2–3 minutes |
| Final Touches and Garnish | Enhance flavor and aroma | 2 minutes |
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Pasta Carrabba experience, thoughtful serving choices can enhance both presentation and flavor. Here are carefully selected suggestions to complement this rich, classic dish.
Pairing with Side Dishes
We recommend serving Pasta Carrabba alongside fresh and vibrant sides. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette contrasts perfectly with the savory sauce. Garlic bread or toasted ciabatta works well to soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce.
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Caesar Salad | Romaine lettuce, Parmesan, croutons, Caesar dressing | Offers crisp texture and acidity |
| Garlic Bread | Crusty bread brushed with garlic butter | Adds buttery richness and crunch |
| Steamed Vegetables | Broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus lightly steamed | Provides freshness and balances the meal |
Wine Pairing
Complement the bold flavors of Pasta Carrabba with a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese. These wines provide bright acidity and subtle tannins that cut through the sauce’s richness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
“A well-chosen wine can elevate the meal from comforting to remarkable.”
Garnishes and Finishing Touches
To bring out the best notes in our dish, we suggest finishing with:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a nutty richness
- Chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to add silkiness and depth
These garnishes add texture and an aromatic finish crucial to authentically replicating the dish’s appeal.
Serving Temperature & Presentation
Serve Pasta Carrabba hot to enjoy its full depth and aroma. Presenting the pasta in warm bowls with a sprinkle of fresh cheese and herbs enhances appeal. Consider a final grind of black pepper for mild heat and aroma.
By pairing wisely and plating thoughtfully, we transform our homemade Pasta Carrabba into a restaurant-quality meal perfect for any occasion.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To preserve the vibrant flavors and perfect texture of our Pasta Carrabba, proper storage and reheating are essential. Follow these steps to enjoy this dish as fresh and delightful as when first prepared.
Storing Pasta Carrabba
- Cool Completely: Allow the pasta and sauce to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation that can make the dish watery.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the pasta and sauce into separate airtight containers. Keeping them separate maintains the sauce’s richness and the pasta’s firmness.
- Refrigeration Time: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.
- Label Containers: Always label with the date to track freshness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Airtight containers |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags |
Reheating Pasta Carrabba
- Thaw if Frozen: Move frozen pasta from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly.
- Gentle Stovetop Reheat: Combine sauce and pasta in a skillet. Add a splash of water or low-sodium broth to restore moisture. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until warmed through but not overcooked.
- Microwave Method: Place pasta with sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly heated.
- Avoid Overheating: Overcooking can make pasta mushy and dry out the sauce. We recommend heating just until steaming hot.
Additional Tips
- Reheat Sauce Separately for Best Results: If stored separately, warm the sauce first to enhance its rich flavors before mixing with pasta.
- Add Fresh Garnishes Post-Reheat: For that fresh finishing touch add freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley just before serving.
- Use Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil post-reheat revives the flavor and adds silkiness.
Conclusion
Pasta Carrabba is a delightful dish that brings warmth and bold flavors to any table. With the right ingredients and a little preparation, it’s easy to create a meal that feels both special and comforting. Whether for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe fits perfectly into our culinary routine.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality Italian experience right at home. Don’t forget to experiment with garnishes and pairings to make the dish your own. We’re confident that Pasta Carrabba will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for delicious, satisfying meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pasta Carrabba?
Pasta Carrabba is a classic Italian-American dish inspired by Carrabba’s Italian Grill. It features pasta like penne or rigatoni tossed in a rich tomato-based sauce with garlic, herbs, and fresh ingredients for bold and comforting flavors.
What ingredients are essential for making authentic Pasta Carrabba?
Key ingredients include penne or rigatoni pasta, San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, onion, fresh herbs like parsley, and quality olive oil. Freshness and quality are vital for the best flavor.
What equipment do I need to cook Pasta Carrabba?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander, a skillet or sauté pan for the sauce, and measuring spoons and cups to ensure precise seasoning.
Can I prepare Pasta Carrabba in advance?
Yes, you can cook the pasta al dente and make the sauce ahead. Store them separately to preserve texture and flavor, then combine and reheat gently before serving.
How should I reheat Pasta Carrabba without losing flavor?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave using short intervals. Warm the sauce separately and add fresh garnishes after reheating for best results.
What side dishes pair well with Pasta Carrabba?
Caesar salad, garlic bread, and steamed vegetables complement the dish nicely. Pairing with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese enhances the dining experience.
How should Pasta Carrabba be stored?
Cool the dish completely, then store pasta and sauce in airtight containers separately. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months to maintain freshness and texture.
What garnishes work best with Pasta Carrabba?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil add flavor and elevate the dish’s presentation perfectly.