20 Creamy Acini de Pepe Recipes for Comforting Meals
As the weather starts to cool down, our cravings for comforting, creamy dishes tend to heat up. And what better way to satisfy those cravings than with a warm, satisfying bowl of pasta? Acini de pepe, also known as small pasta beads, are the perfect base for a variety of creamy sauces that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic combinations like lemon and garlic butter to more adventurous pairings like truffle oil and caramelized onions, we’ve rounded up 20 deliciously creamy acini de pepe recipes to try this fall. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and citrusy or rich and indulgent, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouthwatering recipes, featuring everything from classic Italian combinations to creative twists and international inspirations. So grab your fork and get cozy – it’s time to dive into the world of creamy acini de pepe!
Lemon Garlic Butter Acini de Pepe
Brighten up your pasta game with this zesty and aromatic recipe! This creamy sauce is a perfect match for the tender Acini de Pepe, a type of pasta that resembles tiny balls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound Acini de Pepe pasta
Instructions:
1. Cook the Acini de Pepe according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir to combine with the butter mixture.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the lemon garlic butter sauce until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Acini de Pepe
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. acini de pepe pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook acini de pepe pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil leaves. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta cooking water, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Rosemary Acini de Pepe
Experience the classic Italian comfort food with this simple and flavorful recipe for Parmesan Rosemary Acini de Pepe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup acini de pepe (small pasta shapes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook acini de pepe according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic and oil.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped rosemary evenly over the pasta.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Acini de Pepe
Spinach Artichoke Acini di Pepe Recipe
A twist on the classic spinach artichoke dip, this recipe brings a creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired spin to the party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Mix until well combined and smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekins.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Mushroom Acini de Pepe
This classic Italian pasta dish combines the flavors of garlic, mushrooms, and cheese with the unique texture of acini di pepe, a type of small pasta beads. This comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz acini di pepe
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the acini di pepe according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the reserved pasta cooking water and Parmesan cheese. Combine cooked acini di pepe with the mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Acini de Pepe
A creamy and delicious twist on the classic pasta dish, this recipe combines broccoli, cheddar cheese, and Acini de Pepe pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz Acini de Pepe pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook Acini de Pepe pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add heavy cream and reserved pasta cooking water. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add cooked Acini de Pepe pasta to the skillet and toss with broccoli and cheese sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken Acini de Pepe
A creamy, flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish, this Pesto Chicken Acini de Pepe recipe combines the richness of pesto with the comforting warmth of chicken and pasta.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 8 oz acini de pepe (small pasta shapes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the acini de pepe according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned on both sides (5-6 minutes total). Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add cooked acini de pepe to the skillet with garlic and stir to combine.
5. Stir in pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the pasta mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon Ranch Acini de Pepe
This recipe adds a smoky, savory flavor to the classic Italian pasta dish, acini de pepe. Crispy bacon and creamy ranch dressing take this comfort food to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup acini de pepe pasta
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add crumbled bacon, butter, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine cooked pasta and bacon-ranch sauce in a serving dish. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Acini de Pepe
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines sun-dried tomatoes, creamy pasta, and savory Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. Acini de Pepe pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Acini de Pepe pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine with the sun-dried tomato mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Alfredo Shrimp Acini de Pepe
This creamy pasta dish is a twist on the classic Alfredo sauce, adding succulent shrimp and tender acini de pepe to create a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. acini de pepe pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine and acini de pepe according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, whisk together flour and Alfredo sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream and paprika.
4. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Acini de Pepe
Roasted Red Pepper Acini de Pepe Recipe
A twist on the classic pasta dish, this recipe combines roasted red peppers with acini de pepe (small, cream-filled pasta) for a sweet and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz acini de pepe
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and chop into small pieces.
4. Cook the acini de pepe according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the roasted red peppers, vegetable broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well.
6. Combine the cooked acini de pepe with the pepper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Acini de Pepe
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful Herbed Goat Cheese Acini de Pepe recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. acini de pepe (Italian small pasta)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the acini de pepe according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crumbled goat cheese, chopped parsley, and basil.
3. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix until smooth.
4. Add the cooked acini de pepe to the bowl and toss until coated with the goat cheese mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion Acini de Pepe
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet impressive Caramelized Onion Acini de Pepe recipe, featuring tender onions and perfectly cooked acorn-shaped pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup Acini de Pepe pasta
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook Acini de Pepe pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine vegetable broth and Parmesan cheese. Heat over low heat until melted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, caramelized onions, and cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Truffle Oil Acini de Pepe
Transform your pasta game with this decadent Truffle Oil Acini de Pepe recipe. This creamy, earthy dish is sure to impress at your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz Acini de Pepe pasta
• 2 tbsp Truffle Oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Acini de Pepe pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the Truffle Oil over low heat.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in the whole milk to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta and truffle sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage Acini de Pepe
This hearty Italian-inspired dish is a twist on traditional acini de pepe, adding spicy sausage for an added kick of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spicy sausage (such as andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup acini de pepe pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the acini de pepe according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage, and sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Lime Acini de Pepe
This recipe is a creative take on the classic Sicilian rice ball, arancini, with the creamy richness of avocado and the brightness of lime. Perfect for a unique appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup cooked Arborio rice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed avocado, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Serve warm with lime wedges, allowing each guest to squeeze a sliver of lime over the arancini.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Gouda Acini de Pepe
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavor of smoked Gouda. This creamy, comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in smoked Gouda, cheddar cheese, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and black pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Olive Acini de Pepe
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a classic Italian twist. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz acini de pepe (small, stuffed pasta)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook acini de pepe according to package instructions, about 10-12 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced olives and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mixed greens, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Acini de Pepe
A classic Italian pasta dish gets a sweet and tangy twist with this Balsamic Glazed Acini de Pepe recipe. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz acini de pepe pasta
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook acini de pepe pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Stir in balsamic glaze and bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the balsamic glaze.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Style Acini de Pepe
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty and comforting Cajun Style Acini de Pepe recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup acini di pepe (small pasta)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the acini di pepe according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the mixture for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the comfort of creamy pasta dishes with these 20 mouth-watering Acini de Pepe recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic Butter and Creamy Tomato Basil, to bold twists like Pesto Chicken and Spicy Sausage, there’s something for everyone. Get creative with unique flavors like Truffle Oil, Avocado Lime, and Smoked Gouda, or stick with tried-and-true favorites like Broccoli Cheddar and Bacon Ranch. These creamy pasta recipes are sure to become new family favorites!