Pasta Papanera

Pasta Papanera is a flavorful and satisfying Italian dish that blends creamy tomato sauce, rich cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta into one delicious meal. This comforting pasta dish is easy to prepare and packed with savory flavors, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal with family and friends. Whether you’re a fan of creamy tomato sauces or simply craving a hearty pasta dish, Pasta Papanera is sure to please.

The sauce is the star of this dish, with its creamy, velvety texture and vibrant tomato flavor. The combination of ripe tomatoes, heavy cream, and a touch of garlic creates a rich, comforting base that perfectly complements the pasta. The sauce is seasoned with classic Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, which infuse it with a depth of flavor that enhances every bite.

The pasta used in Pasta Papanera is typically a sturdy variety like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli, as these shapes are ideal for holding onto the rich sauce. As the pasta cooks, it soaks up the delicious sauce, making each bite a perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors. The addition of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or mozzarella, gives the dish an extra layer of creaminess and savory goodness, adding both flavor and texture.

What makes Pasta Papanera stand out is its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste by adding extra ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken for more depth. If you prefer a spicier version, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a little heat. For a more decadent twist, try adding a splash of white wine or a drizzle of truffle oil to enhance the flavors.

Pasta Papanera is a great dish for a cozy dinner at home. It’s simple enough to prepare on a busy night but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. The creamy tomato sauce pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

This recipe is made by Gary Frank Davis.

Pasta Papanera – by Gary Frank Davis

3.63 from 69 votes

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Ingredients

  

• 12 oz pasta I use spaghetti or linguine
• 3 eggs
• 6-8 slices bacon
• 1 bunch scallions
• 2 Bell peppers pick your colors
• 12 ounces crimini or button mushrooms
• ½ cup black olives sliced
• 4 cloves garlic
• 4 oz romano or parmesan cheese grated
• 4 Basil leaves fresh

Instructions

 

• Whisk eggs in a large bowl and add grated cheese until the mixture is grainy. Set aside.
• Start boiling water for pasta. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta.
• In a large skillet, start cooking bacon. When fully cooked, remove it from the skillet, cut it into small pieces, and set aside.
• Slice vegetables into half-inch pieces and cut peppers crosswise.
• After removing the bacon, add garlic cloves and scallions to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Then, add the peppers and herbs and sauté for another 3-4 minutes.
• Add mushrooms, olives, and the cooked bacon to the skillet, and sauté for 4-5 minutes.
• Drain the cooked pasta, reserving 2 tablespoons of the pasta water, and add the pasta to the egg mixture. Stir until the pasta is coated and the heat from the pasta cooks the egg. Fold in the reserved pasta water.
• Combine the contents of the skillet with the pasta mixture. Stir well and serve, garnished with chopped parsley.

Author: Gary Frank Davis

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