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Pasta in Crusty Bowls

Pasta in Crusty Bowls: A Fun Twist on Comfort Food

Pasta in Crusty Bowls combines al dente spaghetti with rich bolognese inside crispy garlic bread, creating a fun and customizable meal experience.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Cooking base for the sauce; any neutral oil can be used.
  • 1 large White onion Adds sweetness and depth; yellow onion or shallots are great substitutes.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Provides aromatic flavor; fresh is best.
  • 1 pound Ground beef Main protein source; swap for mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 cup Tomato puree Thickens and enhances sauce flavor; no substitution recommended.
  • 1/2 cup Red wine Adds acidity and depth; use vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
  • 2 cups Tomato passata Base for the sauce; canned crushed tomatoes can be used instead.
  • 1 cup Beef stock Adds richness; substitute with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Ensures it’s vegetarian if using a substitute.
  • 1 cup Fresh basil Fresh herbal notes; dried basil can be used if fresh isn't available.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Adds earthy flavor; no substitutions needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity; omit or reduce for your preference.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly grated parmesan Enhances flavor; Pecorino cheese is a good substitute.
For the Pasta Bowls
  • 8 ounces Spaghetti Main carbohydrate; any pasta can work.
  • 4 pieces Crusty white rolls Forms the serving bowls; sourdough or ciabatta are excellent alternatives.
For the Garlic Butter
  • 1/2 cup Butter Mixed with garlic for flavor; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Made into paste garlic Mixed into butter for maximum taste; fresh is ideal.
  • 1/4 cup Extra parmesan for garlic butter Adds flavor; you can omit if desired.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley Garnish that adds freshness; leave it out if you don't have any on hand.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Melts beautifully on top; substitute with cheddar or another melting cheese if preferred.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Bread knife
  • Small Bowl
  • large pot
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté one finely diced white onion until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add three minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  2. Increase the heat slightly and add one pound of ground beef to the skillet. Brown the meat thoroughly for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart until no pink remains. Stir in one cup of tomato puree and half a cup of red wine, simmering until the wine is reduced by half, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Incorporate two cups of tomato passata, one cup of beef stock, one tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, fresh basil, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of sugar into the skillet. Reduce heat to low, simmer for 25 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
  4. While the sauce simmers, hollow out four crusty white rolls. Leave a sturdy outer crust to hold the filling and set aside the tops for serving.
  5. Combine melted butter, one tablespoon of garlic paste, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of extra parmesan in a small bowl. Brush this mixture inside and outside each bread bowl.
  6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add eight ounces of spaghetti. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with the prepared bolognese sauce.
  7. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Fill each garlic buttered bread bowl with saucy spaghetti, top with mozzarella, and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and bread is crispy.
  8. Switch the oven to broil and broil the bread bowls for about 1-2 minutes until golden, ensuring they don’t burn.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Store leftovers separately; pasta and bread will keep best when not combined.

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