Did you know a single serving of Carbone’s Spicy Rigatoni costs $32 in New York City? This fact shows how popular this dish is. I’m excited to teach you how to make it at home, saving money and enjoying a top-notch meal.
Carbone spicy rigatoni recipe has been a hit worldwide, starting in 2013. It’s a mix of creamy vodka sauce and a spicy kick. This guide will show you how to make it in your kitchen.
To make a real Carbone spicy rigatoni, you’ll need 500g of rigatoni, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 4 minced garlic cloves. You’ll also need 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. The sauce needs 6 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese. These ingredients are essential for the dish’s rich flavors.
Get ready to wow your family and friends with your own Carbone spicy rigatoni. Let’s explore the world of Italian pasta dishes and master the Carbone spicy rigatoni recipe!
The Story Behind Carbone’s Famous Pasta Creation
Carbone’s spicy rigatoni vodka has been a hit in New York City’s culinary scene. It opened in 2013 and quickly became famous. People love it for its amazing flavors and textures, making it worth the $32 price.
New York’s Culinary Icon
Carbone’s fame grew fast. It got a Michelin star just a year after opening. The dish’s spicy tomato sauce, rigatoni, and vodka made it a sensation. Social media and food influencers helped spread the word.
From Restaurant Table to Home Kitchen
Carbone’s dish inspired many to try making it at home. In 2021, Carbone released jarred sauces. This let fans enjoy the dish in their own kitchens.
What Makes This Dish Special
The sauce is the secret to Carbone’s dish. It’s made with top ingredients like Calabrian chili and slow-cooked onions. The vodka adds depth to the flavors, making it irresistible.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2013 | Carbone opens in New York City |
| 2014 | Earns Michelin star |
| 2021 | Releases jarred sauces for at-home use |
| 2023 | Spicy vodka sauce available nationwide |
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Carbone Spicy Rigatoni Recipe
I’m excited to share the key ingredients for Carbone’s spicy rigatoni. This dish combines premium pasta with a rich, spicy sauce. It’s a culinary masterpiece that will take your taste buds to New York City.
Premium Pasta Selection
The foundation of this iconic dish is 8 ounces of high-quality rigatoni pasta. Its ridges and hollow center are perfect for capturing the flavorful sauce. For a gluten-free option, try lentil, quinoa, or chickpea pasta.
The Secret Sauce Components
The heart of the dish lies in its sauce. You’ll need 1/4 cup tomato paste, 1/4 cup vodka (or vegetable broth), and 1 cup heavy cream. These ingredients create a velvety texture and depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Cheese and Aromatics
To enhance the flavor profile, we use 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, 3 medium garlic cloves, and half a medium Spanish onion. These aromatics add complexity and richness to the sauce.
Spice Elements
The signature kick comes from 1 1/2 teaspoons of Calabrian chili paste. You can also use red pepper flakes or Calabrian chili peppers for that spicy punch. Don’t forget a drizzle of olive oil to finish the dish.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rigatoni pasta | 8 ounces |
| Tomato paste | 1/4 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmigiano-Reggiano | 1/4 cup |
| Calabrian chili paste | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a restaurant-quality Carbone spicy rigatoni at home. The dish packs 709 calories per serving and costs less than $10 per person. It’s a delicious and affordable treat.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make Carbone’s spicy rigatoni, you’ll need some important tools. A large pot is key for boiling pasta in salted water. This ensures your rigatoni cooks well. A heavy-bottomed pot helps keep the heat even.
A large skillet is vital for making the sauce. Look for one with high sides to hold all ingredients. It makes stirring easier. Also, a cheese grater is needed for the Parmesan, which makes the dish richer.
| Tool | Purpose | Recommended Size |
|---|---|---|
| Large pot | Boiling pasta | 8-10 quarts |
| Large skillet | Sauce preparation | 12-14 inches |
| Cheese grater | Grating Parmesan | Box or handheld |
| Wooden spoon | Stirring sauce | 12-14 inches |
| Colander | Draining pasta | 5-quart capacity |
With these tools, you’re set to make Carbone’s spicy rigatoni. The right tools can really help you get that restaurant taste at home.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into the heart of creating Carbone’s iconic Spicy Rigatoni. I’ll guide you through each stage, from sauce preparation to the final dish assembly.
Preparing the Base Sauce
Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium low heat. Finely chop one large yellow onion and 6 garlic cloves. Sauté the onion for 5-6 minutes until tender and browned.
Add garlic and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Stir in 4.5 ounces of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of Calabrian chili paste. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the mixture turns deep red.
Cooking the Perfect Al Dente Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 2-3 minutes less than package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1 cup pasta water. This starchy liquid is key for a silky sauce.
Combining and Finishing the Dish
Pour ¼ cup vodka into the sauce and let it simmer for a minute. Mix ¾ cup heavy cream with ¼ cup warm pasta water, then add to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for a couple more minutes, adding pasta water as needed. Finish with ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
- Total cooking time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Calories per serving: 981
Professional Tips and Techniques
Let’s explore some pro tips to elevate your Carbone spicy rigatoni. These methods will help you perfect this iconic pasta dish. You’ll create a dish that matches the restaurant’s quality.
The Importance of Pasta Water
The secret to a silky sauce is the pasta water. Save about 1 cup of the starchy, salty water from cooking your rigatoni. This liquid gold emulsifies the sauce, making it creamy.
Achieving the Perfect Sauce Consistency
To get the sauce right, cook it until it coats the back of a spoon. Then, add the reserved pasta water while stirring. This step incorporates the flavorful browned bits from the pan. For extra richness, add some grated parmesan cheese.
Temperature Control Tips
Watch your heat levels closely. When adding cream, lower the temperature to avoid curdling. For that signature heat, add Calabrian chili peppers slowly, tasting as you go. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away!
| Ingredient | Amount | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Rigatoni | 1 lb | 10 minutes (al dente) |
| Marinara Sauce | 2 cups | Simmer for a few minutes |
| Heavy Cream | 1/3 cup | Add last, heat on low |
| Calabrian Chili Peppers | 1/4 cup, diced | Add to taste |
Recipe Variations and Modifications
I love trying new things with classic recipes. The Carbone Spicy Rigatoni is no different. Let’s see how we can make this dish our own.
Adjusting Spice Levels
The recipe has a nice kick from 2 tablespoons of Calabrian chili peppers. If you like it hotter, add another tablespoon. For a milder taste, use just 1 tablespoon or sweet bell peppers.
Dietary Adaptations
Want a vegetarian version? Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. This keeps it creamy but plant-based. You can also try vegan butter and oat milk.
Creative Add-ins
Make your Carbone Spicy Rigatoni even better with these add-ins:
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
- Crispy pancetta or prosciutto for meat lovers
- Sun-dried tomatoes for an extra tangy kick
- Fresh basil leaves for a herbal touch
For a full meal, add garlic bread and extra parmesan cheese. These enhance the dish’s rich flavors.
| Variation | Ingredients | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | 1 lb rigatoni, 1 cup heavy cream | 20 minutes |
| Vegetarian | 1 lb rigatoni, 1 cup coconut cream | 20 minutes |
| Extra Spicy | 1 lb rigatoni, 3 tbsp Calabrian chili | 20 minutes |
Home cooking is all about making it your own. Feel free to change things up to match your taste while keeping the dish’s spirit.
Conclusion
I’ve shown you how to make Carbone’s spicy rigatoni, a dish that’s a big hit. It started in Chef Mario Carbone’s New York restaurant a decade ago. Now, it’s loved by celebrities and food lovers everywhere.
This pasta dish is more than just food; it’s an experience. It has a vegan-friendly sauce and ingredients that fit many diets. Whether you follow a recipe from Reddit or create your own, using quality ingredients and techniques is important.
The original dish at Carbone costs $26, but you can make it at home for less. It’s all about the perfect pasta and a rich, spicy sauce. So, put on your apron and make your own version of this dish. Happy cooking!
FAQ – Carbone’s Spicy Rigatoni
What type of pasta is best for Carbone’s spicy rigatoni?
High-quality rigatoni is the best choice. Its large, ridged tubes are great for holding the creamy, spicy sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version. Just leave out the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How spicy is the original Carbone spicy rigatoni?
The original dish has a moderate heat level. You can adjust the spiciness at home by changing the amount of red pepper flakes and Calabrian chiles.
What gives Carbone’s spicy rigatoni its signature creaminess?
The creaminess comes from heavy cream, pasta water, and Parmesan cheese.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead. Just reheat it gently and mix it with fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the secret to getting the sauce consistency right?
Use pasta water to emulsify the sauce. Add it slowly while stirring for a silky texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Parmesan is traditional, you can try other hard, aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different taste.
How long does it take to make this dish?
It takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare Carbone’s spicy rigatoni at home.
What can I serve with Carbone’s spicy rigatoni?
It goes well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A full-bodied red wine also pairs nicely.
Is vodka necessary for the recipe?
Vodka is traditional, but you can leave it out if you prefer. The alcohol cooks off, adding a subtle flavor to the dish.
