Mastering Affordable Pasta Recipes Under $2 Per Serving

Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a culinary canvas that offers endless possibilities without breaking the bank. Here’s how to whip up three delicious pasta dishes for under $2 per serving, proving that great food doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Key Takeaway:

Discover how to create restaurant-quality pasta dishes at home for less than $2 per serving with these simple yet flavorful recipes.

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1. Marcella Hazan’s Classic Onion Butter Tomato Sauce

Marcella Hazan, the legendary Italian chef, gifted the world with this timeless pasta sauce recipe. It’s rich, velvety, and surprisingly economical.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (28 oz) peeled Roma tomatoes
• 1 whole onion, peeled and halved
• 5 tbsp (70g) unsalted butter
• Salt and sugar to taste
• 1 lb spaghetti or bucatini
• Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine tomatoes, onion halves, butter, salt, and a pinch of sugar.
2. Simmer over medium heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally and crushing tomatoes against the pan.
3. Remove onion, adjust seasoning, and toss with cooked pasta.
4. Serve with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano if desired.

Cost per Serving: Approximately $1.60 (excluding cheese)

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2. Shockingly Affordable Alfredo Sauce

Alfredo sauce is a beloved indulgence that can be made at home for a fraction of restaurant prices. It’s creamy, comforting, and easy on the wallet.

Ingredients:

• 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1.5 cups (110g) finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• 2 cloves garlic, grated
• Freshly cracked black pepper and salt to taste
• 1 lb fettuccine or similar wide noodles

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add heavy cream, simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Whisk in Parmigiano-Reggiano until smooth. Season with garlic, pepper, and salt.
4. Toss with cooked pasta and serve with extra cheese and pepper on top.

Cost per Serving: Around $1.80 (without additional protein)

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3. Pasta Aglio e Olio

Pasta Aglio e Olio is the epitome of simplicity with bold flavors of garlic, olive oil, and a hint of spice. It’s quick, inexpensive, and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup (80ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 7 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tsp (5g) red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste
• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1/2 cup (12g) finely chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
3. Cook pasta until al dente, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
4. Toss drained pasta with garlic oil, adding pasta water as needed for a silky texture.
5. Season with salt, sprinkle with parsley, and serve.

Cost per Serving: Approximately $1.50

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Taste and Affordability Combined

Each of these pasta recipes offers a unique taste experience while respecting your budget. Whether you crave the rich tomato goodness of Marcella Hazan’s sauce, the creamy luxury of Alfredo, or the simple perfection of Aglio e Olio, these dishes prove that gourmet dining can start right in your own kitchen without draining your wallet.

Final Thoughts:
Experiment with these recipes, tweak them to your taste, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating delicious meals at a fraction of the cost you’d pay at a restaurant. Cooking pasta at home not only saves money but also allows you to savor the true essence of Italian cuisine with every bite.

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Now that you’ve learned how to make these affordable pasta dishes, which one will you try first? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below and let’s continue the conversation about great food on a budget!