Make this quick Amatriciana pasta recipe inspired by Chef Joe Sasto. A bold, easy Italian dish cooked in enameled cast iron for rich, even flavor.
Perfect for home cooks looking for easy pasta dishes, this recipe combines crispy guanciale, garlic, red onion, and a bright tomato sauce to create a perfectly balanced meal.
Cooking it in enameled cast iron cookware ensures even heat, rich flavor development, and effortless sauce simmering - just like in Chef Sasto’s kitchen.
Whether you’re exploring new pasta recipes, seeking inspiration from top chef cooking techniques, or looking to elevate your everyday dinner routine, this dish delivers the authentic Italian flavor and satisfaction that makes cooking at home a joy.

Amatriciana
10 min
25 min
2-3
Dinner
Chef Joe Sasto
Sear. Simmer. Sasto!
Chef Joe Sasto's Exclusive
Cookware Collection
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 4 Oz Pancetta or Guanciale, Diced
- 2 Cloves Garlic, Sliced
- ½ Small Red Onion, Thinly Sliced
- 1 Teaspoons Chili Flakes (or to Taste)
- 1 (14 Oz) Can Crushed Tomatoes
- Salt And Black Pepper
- 8 Oz Spaghetti or Bucatini
- Grated Pecorino Romano
- Parsley (optional)
Directions
1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook until crispy.
2. Stir in garlic and red onion, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Add chili flakes and crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 10–15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water until al dente.
5. Toss pasta with the sauce and a splash of pasta water if needed.
6. Serve topped with Pecorino Romano. It’s bold, simple, and hits every note.
Flavor and Texture Tips:
- Use high-quality pancetta or guanciale for authentic flavor
- Don’t skip the pasta water trick—it helps the sauce cling beautifully
- Garnish with Pecorino Romano and fresh parsley for presentation and flavor
Whether you’re a fan of Chef Joe Sasto or just love classic Italian pasta recipes, this dish is a must-add to your cooking repertoire.
Using enameled cast iron cookware elevates the flavors and ensures your pasta comes out perfectly every time.