Mucci’s Bucatini

Introduction

Mucci’s Bucatini is a luxurious, flavor-packed pasta dish that brings the essence of classic Italian cooking to your table. Featuring perfectly al dente bucatini noodles enveloped in a rich, slow-simmered tomato sauce, this dish is a testament to deep, comforting flavors and authentic Italian tradition. Originating from the beloved Mucci’s Italian restaurant, it’s known for its bold, savory taste, generous Parmesan topping, and satisfying, hearty texture.

The first time I tried Mucci’s Bucatini, I was instantly hooked. The way the thick, hollow pasta captured every bit of the velvety sauce made each bite incredibly satisfying. The slow-cooked depth of the tomato base, paired with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of spice, created a perfect harmony of flavors that lingered long after the meal was over.

What I love most about Mucci’s Bucatini is its versatility. While it’s delicious on its own, you can elevate it even further with the addition of crispy pancetta, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for extra heat. Serve it with warm, crusty bread and a glass of wine for the ultimate Italian dining experience. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to impress guests, this dish is a guaranteed winner.

Perfect for:

• Date nights at home
• Italian-themed dinners
• Comfort food cravings
• Family gatherings
• Pasta lovers

Why You’ll Love This Mucci’s Bucatini Recipe

Here’s why Mucci’s Bucatini is a must-try dish:

• Authentic Italian Flavor: A deep, rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice.
• Perfectly Coated Pasta: Bucatini’s hollow shape holds onto the sauce for the perfect bite every time.
• Simple Yet Luxurious: Easy to make but tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.
• Versatile: Customize with different proteins or extra vegetables.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500-600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbs: 80g, Protein: 18g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Mucci’s Bucatini:

• 12 oz bucatini pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 oz) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, for balance)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• Extra Parmesan, for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Bucatini Pasta: A thick, hollow pasta that holds onto sauce beautifully.
• San Marzano Tomatoes: Known for their naturally sweet and rich flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat to balance the sauce.
• Butter: Gives the sauce a silky, restaurant-style finish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami and depth to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Bucatini:

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the Pasta: Add the bucatini and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the Sauce:

3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Tomato Paste & Wine: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, then deglaze with white wine (if using).
6. Simmer Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

7. Add Butter & Parmesan: Stir butter and grated Parmesan into the sauce for richness.
8. Toss Pasta: Add the cooked bucatini and reserved pasta water (as needed) to loosen the sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.

How to Serve Mucci’s Bucatini

• Classic Cacio e Pepe – Keep it simple with Pecorino Romano, freshly ground black pepper, and a bit of pasta water for a creamy, peppery sauce.
• Bucatini all’Amatriciana – Toss with a rich tomato sauce made from guanciale, red pepper flakes, white wine, and Pecorino Romano for a bold, traditional Italian dish.
• Garlic Butter & Parmesan – Coat the bucatini in a simple garlic butter sauce, then top with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Bucatini Carbonara – Make it the Roman way with crispy pancetta (or guanciale), egg yolks, Pecorino Romano, and black pepper for a creamy, indulgent pasta.
• Seafood Bucatini – Pair it with a white wine and garlic sauce, then add shrimp, scallops, or mussels for a light but flavorful dish.
• Spicy Arrabbiata Bucatini – Use a spicy Arrabbiata sauce with crushed red pepper, garlic, and tomatoes for a fiery kick. Add fresh basil for extra freshness.
• Lemon & Ricotta Bucatini – Toss the pasta with whipped ricotta, lemon zest, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a bright, creamy dish.
• Bucatini Puttanesca – Serve it with a bold and briny sauce made from capers, olives, anchovies, garlic, and crushed tomatoes for a deep umami flavor.
• Basil Pesto Bucatini – Coat the noodles with fresh basil pesto, then top with pine nuts, extra Parmesan, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh, summery dish.
• Short Rib Bucatini – Toss the bucatini with a slow-braised short rib ragu, rich in red wine, tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, for a deeply comforting meal.

Additional Tips for Mucci’s Bucatini

• Use High-Quality Bucatini – Choose an artisanal or bronze-cut bucatini for a better texture and sauce absorption. Brands like De Cecco, Rustichella d’Abruzzo, or Pastificio di Martino work great.
• Salt the Pasta Water Well – Use at least 1 tablespoon of salt per 4–5 quarts of water. This enhances the pasta’s natural flavor and ensures a well-seasoned dish.
• Cook Bucatini Al Dente – Since bucatini is thicker than regular spaghetti, it takes longer to cook. Follow the package instructions but taste a minute early to ensure a firm bite.
• Save Pasta Water – Reserve at least ½ cup of pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce, making it silky and well-coated on the pasta.
• Toss the Pasta in the Sauce – Instead of just spooning sauce over the pasta, toss bucatini directly in the sauce over low heat. This helps the sauce cling to the pasta better.
• Add Freshly Grated Cheese at the End – Whether using Pecorino Romano, Parmesan, or a blend, grate it fresh and add it off the heat to prevent clumping.
• Finish with High-Quality Olive Oil – A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving enhances the flavors and adds a silky richness to the dish.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs – Garnish with chopped fresh basil, parsley, or even thyme to add brightness and balance the richness of the sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – If cooking for a large group, mix pasta and sauce in batches to prevent uneven coating and clumping.
• Let It Rest for a Minute Before Serving – Allowing the pasta to sit for a minute helps the sauce thicken slightly and absorb better into the bucatini.

Recipe Variations for Mucci’s Bucatini

1. Spicy Arrabbiata Style: Increase the red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
2. Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer texture.
3. Puttanesca Twist: Add capers, olives, and anchovies for a briny depth.
4. Vegetable-Packed: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
5. Meaty Sauce: Brown ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier dish.
6. Truffle Bucatini: Drizzle with truffle oil for an upscale twist.
7. Lemon Zest Addition: Brighten the dish with fresh lemon zest before serving.
8. Vodka Sauce: Swap wine for vodka and add cream for a restaurant-style upgrade.
9. Mushroom Lovers: Use wild mushrooms for an earthy, umami-rich taste.
10. Pesto Bucatini: Stir in basil pesto for a fresh herbal flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Sauce: Store extra sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.

Special Equipment for Mucci’s Bucatini

• Large Pot for Boiling Pasta
• Large Skillet for Sauce
• Wooden Spoon for Stirring
• Cheese Grater for Parmesan
• Tongs for Tossing Pasta

FAQ for Mucci’s Bucatini

1. Can I use spaghetti instead of bucatini? Yes, but bucatini’s hollow shape holds the sauce better.
2. Is this dish vegetarian? Yes! Just ensure you use vegetarian Parmesan.
3. Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in a pan with a splash of water over low heat.
5. Can I add meatballs? Absolutely! Meatballs pair wonderfully with this sauce.

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Conclusion

Mucci’s Bucatini is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together simple ingredients with bold, authentic Italian flavors. This rich, satisfying dish features perfectly cooked bucatini pasta coated in a flavorful sauce, making every bite irresistibly delicious. Whether enjoyed on its own or customized with your favorite additions, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving a cozy bowl of pasta, Mucci’s Bucatini delivers a true taste of Italy right at home. Serve it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and a side of crusty bread for an unforgettable dining experience.

I can’t wait to see your take on this classic dish! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make it your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite variations in the comments. Happy cooking!