Rigatoni Pasta with Shallots and Guanciale – A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Looking for a simple yet flavorful pasta dish that will impress your taste buds? This Rigatoni Pasta with Shallots and Guanciale is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and slightly salty flavors. The creamy shallots and crispy guanciale pair beautifully with the rich pasta, creating a dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
• 4 oz (115g) guanciale, diced (or pancetta as a substitute)
• 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Cook the Guanciale

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced guanciale and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown. Remove the guanciale from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallots and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add the shallots and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Add the Liquids

1. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for another 5-7 minutes, reducing slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to blend with the sauce.
2. Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the sauce needs to be thinned, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Stir the crispy guanciale back into the pasta mixture.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve in bowls, and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Cooking: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Tips & Notes

✅ Guanciale Substitute: If you can’t find guanciale, pancetta or even bacon can work as a substitute. However, the flavor profile won’t be exactly the same.
✅ Creamy Variation: For a creamier sauce, feel free to add more heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese.
✅ Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added to elevate the dish with an herbal note.

Conclusion

This Rigatoni Pasta with Shallots and Guanciale is an easy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of guanciale with the sweetness of shallots, creating a savory sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. It’s a comforting meal that comes together in no time, making it ideal for weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy! ✨