This pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser in my household and is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. The combination of pepperoni, onions, garlic, and mozzarella cheese creates a rich and flavorful dish that will leave everyone asking for more. Follow this step-by-step guide to recreate this amazing recipe at home.
Ingredients:
- Olive oil (enough to coat the pan)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 pepperoni sausage, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 250 grams of pasta (your choice of type)
- 1 tomato, diced
- 200 grams of heavy cream
- 450 milliliters of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- Mozzarella cheese, grated (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Start by drizzling olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Ensure the bottom of the pan is evenly coated.
- Spread the oil around to cover the entire surface of the pan.
- Saute the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add the sliced pepperoni and cook until it starts to brown slightly.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
- Add Pasta and Tomatoes:
- Add 250 grams of pasta to the pan, followed by the diced tomato.
- Stir the ingredients to combine.
- Add Cream and Broth:
- Pour in 200 grams of heavy cream and 450 milliliters of chicken broth.
- Stir well to mix all the ingredients together.
- Season the Dish:
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Add Mozzarella:
- Once the pasta is cooked, add mozzarella cheese to taste over the top of the dish.
- Cover the pan again and let it cook for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become gooey.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the cheese has melted, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve hot, straight from the pan.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or parmesan to vary the flavor.
- Meat Variations: Substitute pepperoni with sausage, bacon, or even shredded chicken for a different twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Pasta: Provides a good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy.
- Tomato: Rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate.
- Garlic and Onion: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Pepperoni: Adds protein and savory flavor to the dish.
- Cheese: Offers calcium and protein, making the dish more nutritious and satisfying.
Detailed Process Explanation:
- Sauteing Aromatics:
- Cooking the onions, pepperoni, and garlic together allows the flavors to meld and create a robust base for the dish. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Combining Ingredients:
- Adding the pasta directly to the pan with the sautéed ingredients allows it to absorb the flavors as it cooks. The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Cooking with Lid On:
- Covering the pan while cooking helps to trap steam, which cooks the pasta evenly and helps it absorb the liquid. This method also prevents the dish from drying out.
- Melting the Cheese:
- Adding mozzarella cheese towards the end and allowing it to melt creates a gooey, cheesy layer that enhances the dish’s richness. Make sure to cover the pan again to help the cheese melt evenly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Pair this pasta with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot to complement the rich flavors.
This one-pan pasta with pepperoni and mozzarella is a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of creamy sauce, flavorful pepperoni, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delightful pasta dish. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, I’d love to hear about them. Enjoy this easy and delicious meal, and see you in the next recipe adventure!
Thank you so much for following along. See you next time!
