When it comes to Italian cuisine, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of paccheri pasta to satisfy your cravings. These tubular pasta shapes are perfectly suited for rich and creamy sauces, as well as bold and spicy flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and new, paccheri pasta is the perfect canvas for any number of delicious recipes.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering paccheri pasta recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From creamy mushroom and truffle sauces to spicy sausage and tomato combinations, these dishes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, our collection of paccheri pasta recipes is sure to inspire your culinary creativity.
So grab your apron, get cooking, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of paccheri pasta!
Creamy Mushroom and Truffle Paccheri Pasta
This rich and earthy pasta dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The combination of sautéed mushrooms, truffle cream sauce, and paccheri pasta creates a truly decadent experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic over medium heat until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add truffle oil, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Combine cooked pasta with mushroom sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paccheri with Spicy Sausage and Tomato Sauce
A classic Italian dish gets a spicy kick with this recipe, featuring paccheri pasta, juicy sausage, and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large onions, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add onions and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sausage mixture. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional tomato sauce if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Paccheri Pasta
A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with the warmth of garlic and the zest of lemon, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, white wine (if using), and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paccheri alla Vodka with Pancetta
This creamy pasta dish originates from Naples and is infused with the bold flavors of vodka, pancetta, and cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup vodka
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet; cook until translucent.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, heavy cream, vodka, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately, topped with crispy pancetta and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Basil Paccheri
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Basil Paccheri: A Delicious Italian-Inspired Dish
This recipe brings together the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes, the freshness of basil, and the comforting warmth of paccheri pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted tomatoes, chopped basil, and cooked pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Paccheri with Ricotta and Spinach
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of ricotta, spinach, and Paccheri pasta for a deliciously satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz Paccheri pasta
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook Paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, sauté garlic and spinach leaves in 1 tablespoon olive oil until wilted.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, and reserved pasta water. Mix well to create a creamy sauce.
4. Combine cooked Paccheri pasta with the ricotta-spinach sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Medley Paccheri in White Wine Sauce
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines succulent seafood with a rich and creamy white wine sauce, perfectly cooked paccheri pasta, and fresh herbs. A perfect meal for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz paccheri pasta
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed seafood and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Remove seafood from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add white wine to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
7. Stir in heavy cream and cook until slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
8. Add cooked seafood back into the skillet and toss with pasta and sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paccheri Carbonara with Crispy Guanciale
A rich and creamy Paccheri carbonara, elevated by the addition of crispy guanciale (cured pork jowl). This Italian classic gets a flavorful boost from the crunchy, savory cured meat.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz Paccheri pasta
– 4 oz guanciale, thinly sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook Paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook guanciale over medium heat until crispy and golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked Paccheri pasta to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add the reserved pasta cooking liquid, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the pasta reaches your desired creaminess.
6. Stir in the crispy guanciale and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Paccheri Pasta
This autumnal pasta dish combines the warmth of roasted pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, all wrapped up in a comforting paccheri pasta. A perfect fall dinner that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and sage leaves in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
4. Add roasted pumpkin to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and sage.
5. Toss cooked pasta with pumpkin mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Paccheri with Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
A classic Italian dish from Campania region, Paccheri with Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce is a flavorful and spicy pasta recipe that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone meal. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz Paccheri pasta
– 2 cups Arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook Paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the Arrabbiata sauce over medium-low heat.
3. Add cooked Paccheri pasta to the skillet and toss with the sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paccheri al Forno with Meatballs and Mozzarella
A classic Italian casserole that combines pasta, meatballs, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 20 oz meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook paccheri pasta al dente, then set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat tomato sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
4. Add cooked meatballs to the sauce and stir to combine.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
6. Create a layer of pasta, followed by a layer of meatball mixture, and then a layer of mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat step 6 until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top.
8. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the cheese.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Lobster Paccheri
Experience the decadence of lobster paired with the richness of garlic butter and the tender bite of paccheri pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 1 lb lobster meat, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add lobster meat to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, lobster mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a baking dish.
6. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Paccheri with Roasted Eggplant and Burrata
This recipe combines the classic Italian pasta Paccheri with the creamy richness of burrata cheese, roasted eggplant, and fresh basil. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz Paccheri pasta
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook Paccheri pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Slice the burrata cheese into thick rounds. Place a round on each plate.
4. Add roasted eggplant slices on top of the burrata. Toss cooked Paccheri pasta with chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Serve over the eggplant.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Paccheri
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes with the hearty, tubular pasta paccheri. The result is a rich and savory dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri
– 1/2 cup homemade pesto (or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the paccheri according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the pesto and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Drain the cooked paccheri and add it to the skillet with the pesto mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paccheri with Clams and Chorizo
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy and Spain to create a unique and delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chorizo, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook paccheri 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 chorizo and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until crispy.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add clams, white wine, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until clams are tender.
5. Combine cooked paccheri pasta with clam mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Four Cheese Baked Paccheri Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italy with a gooey four-cheese blend, baked to perfection in a golden brown crust. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup grated gorgonzola cheese
– 1/4 cup grated ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mozzarella, parmesan, gorgonzola, and ricotta cheese.
4. Add cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish coated with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paccheri with Spicy Calabrian Chili and Breadcrumbs
This recipe brings together the classic Italian paccheri pasta with a bold and spicy twist, thanks to the addition of Calabrian chili peppers. The crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying textural element to this flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili peppers, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped chili peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the chili-garlic mixture.
6. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
8. Season with salt and pepper, then serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Paccheri in Creamy Gorgonzola and Walnut Sauce
Paccheri, a type of tubular pasta from Campania, Italy, is perfectly paired with the rich flavors of creamy gorgonzola and toasted walnuts. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz paccheri
– 8 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook paccheri according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in crumbled Gorgonzola cheese until smooth. Remove from heat.
4. Add chopped parsley and toasted walnuts to the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked paccheri with the cheese sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
6. If desired, add heavy cream to thin the sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Paccheri pasta lovers rejoice! This article brings together 18 mouth-watering recipes to satisfy every craving. From creamy mushroom and truffle to spicy sausage and tomato sauce, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy classic combinations like lemon garlic shrimp or vodka-infused pancetta, or try something new like roasted cherry tomatoes and basil or seafood medley in white wine sauce. With a range of flavors and ingredients, these paccheri pasta recipes are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations.
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.
