Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this Italian grinder pasta will become a favorite.
-
Only 5 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
-
Ready in under an hour.
-
Creamy and meaty. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
-
Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pasta and cheese.
-
Budget-friendly. Pasta, salami, and sauce are inexpensive.
-
Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
-
Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
-
12 oz dry short pasta (ziti, penne, or rigatoni)
-
8 oz hard salami, cut into thin strips or small pieces
-
3 cups jarred creamy Alfredo sauce (about 24 oz)
-
8 oz provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
-
1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese (or mozzarella)
Ingredient Notes
Short pasta: Use ziti, penne, or rigatoni. It holds the sauce well.
Hard salami: Adds savory, smoky flavor. Cut into thin strips or small pieces.
Alfredo sauce: Creates the creamy base.
Provolone cheese: Adds a mild, tangy flavor.
Italian blend cheese: Adds extra cheesiness and helps create a golden topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Set a 9×13-inch disposable foil pan or any 3-quart baking dish on a baking sheet for easy handling.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook 2 minutes less than the package directions for al dente. Drain well.
Step 3: Prepare the Salami
While the pasta cooks, stack the salami slices and cut them into thin strips, or chop into small bite-size pieces.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Sauce, and Salami
In a large bowl, combine the hot drained pasta, Alfredo sauce, and salami. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Transfer to the Pan
Spoon the creamy pasta mixture into the foil pan and spread it into an even layer.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Lay the provolone slices over the top in a single layer. Sprinkle the shredded Italian blend cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Cover the foil pan tightly with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is mostly melted.
Step 8: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and return the pan to the oven. Bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Let the pasta rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Italian Grinder Pasta
This creamy, meaty pasta is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with asparagus or zucchini.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with basil or parsley.
With Extra Cheese: Add more Parmesan on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Sausage: Substitute cooked Italian sausage for the salami.
Make It with Pepperoni: Use pepperoni instead of salami.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use shells or rotini.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use marinara or vodka sauce.
Make It with Different Cheese: Use mozzarella or cheddar.
Make It with Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Make It in a Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cook the pasta 2 minutes less than al dente. It will finish cooking in the oven.
Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam.
Let the pasta rest before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Sausage or pepperoni can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Shells or rotini can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Marinara or vodka sauce can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pasta did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 2 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without salami?
Yes. Omit or use cooked sausage.
The Beauty of Italian Grinder Pasta
There is something deeply satisfying about a creamy, meaty, cheesy pasta dish. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This Italian grinder pasta is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pasta in your pantry. Keep salami in your fridge. Keep Alfredo sauce and cheese in your pantry and refrigerator. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes covered, plus 10–15 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings