When it comes to Italian cuisine, there’s nothing quite like a well-cooked pasta dish. And when that pasta is Casarecce, things get really interesting. This Sicilian staple is known for its unique twisted shape and ability to hold onto sauces like a charm. In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of Casarecce recipes and explore 20 delicious ways to prepare this beloved pasta.
From classic combinations like creamy pesto sauce and spicy arrabbiata, to innovative twists with roasted vegetables and sun-dried tomatoes, there’s something for everyone in our roundup. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive centerpiece for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered.
Casarecce with Creamy Pesto Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines tender casarecce pasta with a rich and creamy pesto sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) casarecce pasta
– 1/2 cup (120g) freshly made or store-bought pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
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 the pesto sauce and heavy cream. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the saucepan with the pesto sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Casarecce Arrabbiata
This classic Italian pasta dish is a flavorful twist on traditional arrabbiata sauce, with the addition of spicy peppers and garlic. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh red pepper (such as calabrian or peperoncino)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped red pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the tomato sauce and stir to combine.
6. Combine the cooked casarecce pasta and tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Roasted Vegetables
Casarecce, a classic Sicilian pasta dish, gets a flavorful twist with the addition of roasted vegetables. This hearty recipe combines tender casarecce noodles with a medley of roasted vegetables and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, cherry tomatoes)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables 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. In a large skillet, heat the minced garlic over medium heat for 1 minute.
5. Add the roasted vegetables to the skillet and toss with the garlic.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Casarecce alla Vodka
This Italian-American fusion dish is a creative twist on the classic vodka sauce, featuring casarecce pasta and a spicy kick from red pepper flakes. This recipe makes 4 servings.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in vodka, crushed tomatoes, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer while pasta cooks.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the vodka sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives
This recipe combines the Sicilian pasta shape casarecce with the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and garlic for a delicious and easy-to-make meal. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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 heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced olives to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Add cooked casarecce pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato and olive mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Casarecce with Shrimp
This vibrant pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon zest and garlic with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a delicate Casarecce noodle. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) Casarecce pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp; sprinkle with zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with reserved pasta water, then add shrimp mixture. Combine well.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce Carbonara
This rich and indulgent pasta dish originates from Rome, where it’s often served at family gatherings and special occasions. Our simplified recipe brings this beloved dish to your table with ease.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) casarecce pasta
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
– 4 slices of guanciale or pancetta, diced
– 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.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add diced guanciale or pancetta to the egg mixture and stir until melted and well combined.
4. Drain pasta and add it to the saucepan with the egg mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe
This recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, broccoli rabe, and casarecce pasta in a simple one-pot meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound casarecce pasta
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and cut into florets
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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 cooking water before draining.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli rabe and chicken broth to the pot. Simmer until the greens are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the pot, stirring to combine with the sausage and vegetable mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta cooking water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Casarecce with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this hearty pasta dish featuring tender casarecce, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let sauce reduce slightly, stirring occasionally, until it coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom cream sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine and coat evenly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Casarecce with Burrata and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the rustic charm of Italian pasta with the creamy richness of burrata cheese and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (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-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces and add it to the skillet with the tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Pesto and Grilled Chicken
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant Italian dish, where casarecce noodles meet creamy pesto sauce and juicy grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine pesto and olive oil over low heat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Add to the skillet with pesto sauce and toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta: 8-10 minutes
– Chicken: 10-12 minutes
– Total: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Spinach and Ricotta
This classic Italian recipe combines the comforting warmth of ricotta cheese with the vibrant freshness of spinach, all wrapped up in the rustic curls of casarecce pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) casarecce pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil, for serving
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 cooking water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, blend spinach and ricotta cheese with 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water until smooth.
3. Combine cooked pasta, spinach-ricotta mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Spicy Calabrian Chili Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Italy’s southern region with this simple yet satisfying pasta dish. By combining tender casarecce pasta with a spicy calabrian chili sauce, you’ll be treated to a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili sauce (such as Pecorelli or similar)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, 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-high heat. Add the Calabrian chili sauce and stir to combine with the oil.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the spicy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Basil Pesto and Toasted Pine Nuts
This classic Italian recipe combines the rustic charm of casarecce pasta with the vibrant flavors of basil pesto and toasted pine nuts. A perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, 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-low heat. Add toasted pine nuts and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in basil pesto and reserved pasta water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly.
4. Combine cooked casarecce pasta with the pesto sauce. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water if needed.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Garlic Butter and Parmesan
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the richness of garlic butter and Parmesan cheese with the comforting shape of casarecce pasta. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) casarecce pasta
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional minute to reduce slightly.
4. Add reserved pasta cooking liquid and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Combine cooked casarecce pasta with garlic butter mixture and toss to coat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Zucchini and Mint
A refreshing summer twist on traditional Casarecce pasta, this recipe combines the sweetness of zucchini with the brightness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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 cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add zucchini slices to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in chopped mint leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked casarecce pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with zucchini and mint mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta cooking water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Clams and White Wine Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines the rustic charm of casarecce pasta with the brininess of fresh clams and a rich white wine sauce. A perfect choice for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) casarecce pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (120ml) white wine
– 1/4 cup (60ml) clam juice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 clams, scrubbed and patted dry
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add white wine, clam juice, and thyme. Bring to a simmer; cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has reduced slightly.
4. Add clams to the skillet; cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until shells open.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sauce, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Casarecce with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This Italian-inspired dish combines tender pasta with a sweet and smoky roasted red pepper sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chopped red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, garlic, chicken broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta with roasted red pepper sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Casarecce with Asparagus and Lemon Zest
A classic Italian pasta dish gets a bright and refreshing twist with the addition of tender asparagus and a burst of citrusy lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the lemon zest to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat and season with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Casarecce with Tomato Basil Sauce and Fresh Mozzarella
This recipe combines the rustic pasta shape casarecce, fresh from Italy, with a vibrant tomato basil sauce and creamy mozzarella cheese. The result is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz casarecce pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook casarecce pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato basil sauce, and sliced mozzarella cheese. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 delicious Casarecce recipes! From creamy pesto sauce to spicy arrabbiata, roasted vegetables to vodka-infused sauces, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, sausage and broccoli rabe, or just a simple yet flavorful dish, this collection of Casarecce recipes has got you covered. With ingredients ranging from sun-dried tomatoes and olives to shrimp and lemon zest, you’ll find inspiration for your next meal in no time.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
