If you're a fan of hearty pasta dishes packed with flavor, this Spicy Smoked Mozzarella Bucatini Amatriciana is perfect for your menu. This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of bucatini and amatriciana sauce with the smokiness from mozzarella cheese and a spicy kick.
#### Ingredients
- 200g bucatini pasta
- 500g ground beef (for meatballs)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 oz smoked mozzarella, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 400g canned tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes for spice (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
#### Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Skillet
- Rolling pin
### Step-by-Step Guide
#### Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
1. **Mix Ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. **Form Balls**: Divide the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should have around 20 meatballs.
3. **Cooking**: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs until they are browned on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
#### Step 2: Make the Sauce
1. **Sauté Onions and Garlic**: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. **Add Tomato Paste**: Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to release flavors.
3. **Combine Tomatoes**: Pour in canned tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
#### Step 3: Cook Bucatini
1. **Boil Pasta**: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. **Cook**: Add bucatini and cook according to package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Reserve some pasta water before draining.
#### Step 4: Finish the Dish
1. **Combine Sauce and Meatballs**: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
2. **Add Mozzarella**: Slice smoked mozzarella and add it to the skillet, allowing it to melt slightly in the sauce.
3. **Taste Adjustments**: Add salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste.
#### Step 5: Serve
1. **Mix Pasta**: Toss the bucatini with the meatballs and sauce until well coated.
2. **Plating**: Plate your dish and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.
3. **Serve Hot**: Enjoy your Spicy Smoked Mozzarella Bucatini Amatriciana while it’s hot.
### Conclusion
This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an excellent opportunity to experiment with flavors. The smokiness of the mozzarella and the heat from red pepper flakes add unique dimensions, making this dish a standout on any Italian-inspired menu. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.