We’ve always been captivated by Hugo’s Pasta Papa Recipe, a hearty Italian-inspired dish that blends simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece. Originating from family kitchens, it’s got that irresistible mix of pasta, savory sauces, and fresh herbs that makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
It’s our go-to for quick weeknight meals, yet it’s elegant enough for gatherings. We’re sharing this gem because it’s easy to whip up and delivers big on flavor, proving that timeless recipes never go out of style.
Ingredients
As we delve into the heart of our Hugo’s Pasta Papa recipe, a timeless Italian-inspired favorite, we’ll outline the essential ingredients that bring its comforting flavors to life. We’ve curated this list based on the order of use, ensuring you have everything prepared for seamless cooking. For optimal results, focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the dish’s rich, herbaceous taste.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta: 12 ounces of dried spaghetti or penne – we recommend choosing a durum wheat variety for its perfect al dente texture when boiled.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil – use this as the base for sautéing to infuse a fruity, peppery note right from the start.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic punch that elevates the savory profile of the sauce.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped – this provides a sweet, foundational flavor when sweated down early in preparation.
- Tomatoes: 28 ounces of canned crushed tomatoes – opt for San Marzano varieties for their naturally sweet and tangy acidity, which forms the sauce’s backbone.
- Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley – these are added towards the end to preserve their vibrant, earthy essence.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon – for a subtle heat that complements the dish’s versatility without overwhelming other flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated – freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the pasta, offering a nutty, salty finish.
- Salt and Pepper: 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper – season to taste throughout to balance the ingredients’ natural flavors.
By gathering these components, we’re set to transform simple staples into a flavorful masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion.
Tools and Equipment
Having gathered our fresh ingredients for Hugo’s Pasta Papa Recipe, we now turn to the essential tools and equipment that make preparation straightforward and efficient. These items ensure we handle the cooking process with precision, from boiling pasta to simmering the savory sauce, allowing us to achieve that perfect, herbaceous flavor profile.
To get started, here’s a detailed list of the key tools we’ll need:
- Large Stock Pot (at least 8 quarts): We rely on this for boiling the pasta to al dente perfection. Its size prevents overflow and ensures even cooking, which is crucial for dishes like Hugo’s Pasta Papa to maintain the noodles’ texture.
- Skillet or Saucepan (10-12 inches, non-stick preferred): This is our go-to for sautéing garlic, onions, and creating the rich tomato sauce. A sturdy, heat-resistant handle makes it safer for stirring and simmering, enhancing the dish’s bold, savory aromas.
- Colander or Strainer: We use this to drain the pasta quickly after boiling, preventing excess water from diluting the sauce and preserving the vibrant flavors of our fresh herbs and tomatoes.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: For chopping onions, garlic, and herbs with ease. We recommend a sharp chef’s knife (at least 8 inches) on a stable cutting board to minimize prep time and ensure uniform pieces that blend seamlessly into the sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in Hugo’s Pasta Papa, so we use these for precise measurements of ingredients like olive oil and spices. This helps us balance the dish’s flavors without guesswork.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: We prefer this for stirring the sauce to avoid scratching our cookware. Its heat-resistant material allows us to mix ingredients gently, coaxing out the full, aromatic essence of the herbs and tomatoes.
- Grater: Essential for freshly grating Parmesan cheese, which adds a nutty, creamy finish to the dish. We suggest a box grater for its versatility in achieving the right texture.
By equipping ourselves with these tools, we streamline the cooking process and elevate the overall experience of preparing Hugo’s Pasta Papa. Each piece plays a vital role in transforming simple ingredients into a comforting, flavorful meal.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing Hugo’s Pasta Papa with straightforward steps that transform fresh ingredients into a rich, herbaceous Italian-inspired dish. Let’s ensure every step highlights the vibrant flavors and comforting aromas for an effortless cooking experience.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, we start by prepping our ingredients to build the foundation of Hugo’s Pasta Papa. Begin by gathering all tools mentioned earlier, such as the cutting board, chef’s knife, and measuring cups.
- Measure the pasta: Take 12 ounces of dried spaghetti or penne and set it aside in a bowl for quick access.
- Chop the vegetables: Finely chop 1 medium onion and 4 cloves of garlic to release their pungent aroma, which will infuse the sauce with depth.
- Prepare the herbs: Roughly tear ½ cup of fresh basil leaves and ¼ cup of fresh parsley for a burst of vibrant, earthy flavors that elevate the dish’s freshness.
- Grate the cheese: Use the grater to prepare ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it’s freshly grated for its nutty, creamy texture that melts seamlessly into the pasta.
- Measure seasonings: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to add a spicy, balanced kick.
This prep work streamlines the process, allowing us to focus on the sizzling sounds and enticing scents as we cook.
Cooking
Now that our ingredients are ready, we move to the cooking phase where the magic happens, blending savory elements into a hearty sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- Boil the pasta: Fill the large stock pot with water, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the 12 ounces of dried spaghetti or penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain using the colander to preserve its firm texture.
- Sauté the base: In the skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring with the wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden and release a fragrant, savory aroma that fills the kitchen.
- Build the sauce: Stir in one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes (we recommend San Marzano for their sweet, tangy profile), the prepared red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop a rich, velvety consistency with layers of flavor.
- Combine everything: Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the torn basil and parsley. Toss gently for 1-2 minutes to coat the pasta evenly, letting the herbs wilt and infuse a fresh, herbaceous essence into the dish.
- Finish with cheese: Remove from heat and stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, watching it melt into the sauce for a creamy, indulgent finish that ties the flavors together.
This step-by-step approach ensures Hugo’s Pasta Papa emerges with its signature comforting warmth and bold taste.
Serving
With the cooking complete, we focus on serving Hugo’s Pasta Papa to showcase its appealing presentation and enhance the dining experience.
- Plate the dish: Divide the pasta among serving bowls, ensuring each portion is generous and visually inviting with strands of pasta glistening in sauce.
- Garnish creatively: Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, savory contrast, and add a few extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and aromatic freshness.
- Add final touches: Drizzle a touch more extra-virgin olive oil if desired, and serve immediately while the dish is hot, allowing the spicy undertones and herbaceous notes to shine.
This method lets us enjoy the dish’s full sensory appeal, making it perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed guiding you through Hugo’s Pasta Papa
It’s a timeless favorite that adds comfort and flair to everyday meals
Let’s make it a go-to in our kitchens and share the simple joys it brings
You’ll find it’s as rewarding to eat as it is to prepare
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hugo’s Pasta Papa Recipe?
Hugo’s Pasta Papa is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring simple ingredients like pasta, savory sauces, and fresh herbs. It’s versatile for quick weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings, emphasizing ease of preparation and rich, herbaceous flavors that make it a timeless favorite.
What ingredients are needed for Hugo’s Pasta Papa?
You’ll need 12 ounces of dried spaghetti or penne, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano), fresh basil and parsley, red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients enhances the dish’s bold, herbaceous taste for a flavorful meal.
What tools are required to make Hugo’s Pasta Papa?
Essential tools include a large stock pot for boiling pasta, a skillet or saucepan for sautéing, a colander for draining, a cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and a grater for cheese. These items streamline the process and ensure efficient preparation.
How do you prepare Hugo’s Pasta Papa?
Start by prepping ingredients: chop herbs, mince garlic, and grate cheese. Boil pasta in a large pot until al dente. In a skillet, sauté garlic and onion in olive oil, add tomatoes and seasonings, then simmer the sauce. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, mix well, and finish with Parmesan for a creamy texture. The whole process takes about 30 minutes.
What are some serving suggestions for Hugo’s Pasta Papa?
Plate the pasta attractively, garnish with extra grated Parmesan, fresh basil, and parsley for added color and flavor. Pair it with garlic bread, a simple salad, or wine for a complete meal. It’s ideal for casual dinners or special occasions, serving 4-6 people to highlight its comforting appeal.