This Cheesy Spaghetti Alla Nerano is a creamy and cheesy pasta dish that packs in lots of flavor! It’s made with zucchini, cheese, and a hint of garlic, making it rich and comforting.
I love how quick it is to whip up this dish—it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Plus, there’s nothing better than a heaping forkful of cheesy goodness! Who could resist? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional pasta choice for this dish, but you can easily switch to other types like linguine or fettuccine if you prefer. Just ensure whatever you choose cooks to an al dente texture!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for a creamy texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too! Both bring a nice flavor and texture, so don’t worry if zucchini isn’t available.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese gives a unique, sharp flavor. If you can’t find Provolone del Monaco, a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan makes a good substitute, although it will change the flavor slightly. Grated Pecorino also adds a salty kick!
Fresh Basil: This adds a lovely freshness to the dish. If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use a pinch of dried basil, but fresh truly elevates the overall flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini is Perfectly Fried?
Frying zucchini can be tricky to get just right. Here are some simple steps to help you achieve that golden-brown goodness:
- Slice the zucchini evenly so they cook at the same rate. Aim for about ¼ inch thick rounds.
- Heat up your skillet over medium heat, and make sure the oil is hot before adding the zucchini. Test it by flicking a bit of water into the pan—if it sizzles, it’s ready!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Work in batches if necessary, so the zucchini has enough space to fry without steaming.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and tender. Then, drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
Following these tips will ensure your zucchini turns out beautifully crispy and flavorful! Enjoy making this delicious dish!
Stanley Tucci’s Favorite Cheesy Spaghetti Alla Nerano
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into rounds
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Provolone del Monaco cheese (or a blend of Provolone and Parmesan)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the spaghetti and frying the zucchini, and the rest is mixing and assembling. In no time, you’ll have a comforting meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining it!
2. Fry the Zucchini:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the zucchini slices in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Fry them until they are golden brown and tender, which should take about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once done, remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as that can give it a bitter taste!
4. Combine Pasta and Garlic:
Now it’s time to add the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta with the beautiful flavors.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Slowly add the grated cheese in small amounts while tossing the pasta continuously. This will help melt the cheese into a creamy, delicious sauce. If it gets too thick, don’t worry! Just add in a splash of that reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creamy consistency.
6. Add Zucchini:
Gently stir in the fried zucchini slices, but save a few for garnishing later. Mix everything well so all the flavors combine.
7. Season:
Give your dish a taste, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your preferences.
8. Plate and Garnish:
Time to serve! Plate your cheesy spaghetti and top it with the reserved fried zucchini slices. If you like, sprinkle over a bit more cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for that extra pop of flavor!
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve it warm and enjoy this comforting and cheesy pasta dish. Perfect for any occasion!
This classic Italian dish brings together the delicate flavors of fresh zucchini and the creamy richness of melted cheese, making each bite truly delightful! Buon Appetito!
FAQ
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What Should I Do If My Cheese Doesn’t Melt Smoothly?
If your cheese isn’t melting into a creamy sauce, don’t panic! Gradually add a bit of reserved pasta water while tossing the pasta. This helps create a silkier texture and integrates the cheese better. Just remember to add the water gradually to avoid making it too liquidy!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead! Cook the pasta and zucchini separately, letting them cool before storing them in the fridge. Just reheat them together with a splash of water before adding the cheese when you’re ready to serve!
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little olive oil or water to help revive the creamy texture!
