We can’t wait to dive into Jon and Vinny’s spicy fusilli recipe, a bold twist on Italian-American favorites straight from LA’s buzzing dining scene. This pasta packs heat with its fiery sauce and al dente noodles, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners that impress.
As food lovers, we’ve simplified the original to bring that restaurant vibe home without the fuss. It’s versatile and full of flavor, so grab your apron and let’s spice up your table with this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
In our adaptation of Jon and Vinny’s spicy fusilli recipe, we focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients that deliver bold flavors and a satisfying heat. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’re used, with prep notes for precision and ease.
Pasta and Base Components
- 12 ounces fusilli pasta: We recommend using dried pasta for its al dente texture; cook according to package instructions.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra-virgin variety works best for sautéing; measure it out before heating your pan.
Aromatics and Spices
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Freshly minced for maximum flavor; avoid pre-chopped to preserve pungency.
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes: Adjust to taste for the signature spicy kick that defines this dish.
- 1 medium onion, finely diced: A yellow onion provides the ideal balance of sweetness and sharpness.
Sauce and Add-Ins
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes elevate the sauce with their rich, tangy profile.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn: Added at the end for a burst of herby aroma; reserve a few leaves for garnish.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for creaminess; Pecorino can substitute for a sharper edge.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, with about 1 teaspoon salt for the pasta water to enhance overall flavor.
This selection ensures our spicy fusilli comes together seamlessly, capturing the essence of Jon and Vinny’s Italian-American flair while making it accessible for your kitchen.
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve gathered our fresh ingredients for Jon and Vinny’s spicy fusilli, we turn to the essential tools that make preparing this bold Italian-American dish straightforward and efficient in our home kitchen. Selecting the right equipment ensures precise cooking and helps us achieve that perfect balance of heat, texture, and flavor.
To prepare this recipe successfully, we’ll need the following items, listed in the order they are typically used:
- Large stock pot: We rely on this for boiling the fusilli pasta to al dente perfection—aim for at least a 6-quart size to prevent overflow and ensure even cooking.
- Skillet or sauté pan: A 12-inch non-stick or stainless-steel version is ideal for sautéing garlic, onions, and chili flakes, allowing us to build the spicy tomato sauce with even heat distribution.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: This tool helps us stir the sauce without scratching our pan, ensuring ingredients blend smoothly for that signature Jon and Vinny flavor.
- Colander: Essential for draining the cooked pasta quickly, we use this to avoid excess water that could dilute our spicy sauce.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board: We need a sharp 8-inch knife paired with a sturdy board for chopping onions, garlic, and basil efficiently and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s success—opt for a set that includes 1-cup and 1-tablespoon sizes to handle everything from olive oil to red chili flakes.
- Box grater: For grating fresh Parmesan cheese, we recommend a medium-hole grater to achieve the fine texture that adds a nutty finish to our fusilli.
With these tools at hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the cooking process, capturing the essence of this versatile, spicy dish.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through creating Jon and Vinny’s Spicy Fusilli, a bold Italian-American favorite bursting with heat and flavor.
Prep
Before we begin cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients for efficiency and precision. Start by bringing a large stock pot of salted water to a boil—aim for about 4 quarts to perfectly cook 1 pound of fusilli pasta. While the water heats, finely mince 4 cloves of garlic and dice 1 medium onion into even ¼-inch pieces for quick, even sautéing. Measure out 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes to control the spicy heat that defines this dish. Roughly tear ½ cup of fresh basil leaves to release their aromatic oils, and grate ½ cup of Parmesan cheese using a box grater for a smooth, melty finish. These steps ensure our components are ready, allowing the vibrant flavors of garlic, onion, and basil to shine without delays.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we move to the cooking phase to build layers of flavor. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers, then add the minced garlic and diced onion, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden and release a fragrant, savory aroma that fills the kitchen. Next, stir in the red chili flakes and cook for 30 seconds to bloom their spicy essence, awakening a bold, tingling heat. Pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, reducing slightly to create a rich, velvety sauce with a deep red hue and tangy brightness. Meanwhile, add the fusilli to the boiling salted water and cook according to package instructions until al dente—typically 8-10 minutes—then drain using a colander, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later. This step captures the perfect balance of tender pasta and robust sauce, ensuring every bite delivers that signature Jon and Vinny spicy kick.
Assemble
Finally, we bring everything together for a cohesive, mouthwatering dish. In the skillet with the sauce, add the drained fusilli and reserved pasta water, tossing gently for 1-2 minutes over low heat to coat the pasta evenly, creating a glossy, unified blend where the spicy fusilli absorbs the sauce’s flavors. Fold in the torn basil and half of the grated Parmesan, stirring until the cheese melts slightly for a creamy texture and fresh, herbaceous notes. Serve immediately in bowls, topping with the remaining Parmesan for a nutty finish that enhances the dish’s warmth and spice. This assembly highlights the vibrant colors, aromatic layers, and satisfying heat of Jon and Vinny’s Spicy Fusilli, making it an irresistible meal.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this spicy fusilli recipe from Jon and Vinny as it’s a game-changer for home cooks.
It’s a simple way to bring bold Italian-American vibes to your table and elevate everyday meals.
We encourage you to tweak it with your favorites and enjoy the satisfying heat it delivers every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jon and Vinny’s spicy fusilli recipe?
Jon and Vinny’s spicy fusilli is a bold Italian-American dish from Los Angeles, featuring flavorful fusilli pasta tossed in a spicy tomato sauce made with garlic, red chili flakes, onions, crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and Parmesan. It’s designed for easy weeknight dinners, offering a perfect balance of heat, texture, and taste that impresses with its vibrant flavors.
What ingredients are needed for the recipe?
You’ll need fusilli pasta, olive oil, garlic, red chili flakes for heat, onion, crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese. Focus on fresh, high-quality items to capture the authentic Italian-American essence. Prep notes include mincing garlic, dicing onion, and grating cheese for precise flavors.
How do I prepare Jon and Vinny’s spicy fusilli?
Start by prepping ingredients like mincing garlic and dicing onion. Sauté garlic and onion in olive oil, add red chili flakes and crushed tomatoes to simmer the sauce. Boil fusilli until al dente, then combine with the sauce, reserved pasta water, basil, and Parmesan for a cohesive, flavorful dish. Total time is about 30-40 minutes.
Is the recipe very spicy, and how can I adjust the heat?
Yes, it’s moderately spicy from red chili flakes, but adjustable for your taste. Start with less flakes if you’re sensitive to heat, or add more for extra kick. The sauce’s base allows easy modifications without losing flavor, making it versatile for different spice preferences.
What equipment is required to make this dish?
You’ll need a large stock pot for boiling pasta, a skillet or sauté pan for the sauce, a wooden spoon for stirring, a colander for draining, a chef’s knife for prep, measuring cups for accuracy, and a box grater for cheese. These tools ensure efficient cooking and perfect texture.
Can I substitute ingredients in the spicy fusilli recipe?
Yes, you can swap fusilli for other short pastas like penne. For a milder version, reduce or replace red chili flakes with milder peppers. Use dried basil if fresh isn’t available, but fresh ingredients enhance the authentic taste. Always maintain the core flavors for the best results.
How long does it take to cook spicy fusilli, and is it beginner-friendly?
The recipe takes about 30-40 minutes total, including prep and cooking. It’s beginner-friendly with simple steps like sautéing veggies and boiling pasta, plus clear instructions that make it accessible for home cooks while delivering a professional-quality meal.