Hey, Welcome to the Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe. Johnny Carino’s Skilletini is a sizzling Italian-American pasta dish made with sausage, peppers, onions, and spaghetti tossed in a rich, zesty marinara sauce.
If you’ve ever visited Johnny Carino’s and tried their famous Skilletini, you already know how hearty, flavorful, and satisfying it is.
I wanted to recreate that at home, and guess what? I nailed it! Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make this flavorful recipe right in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian-American
Category: Main Course
History and Origin
Johnny Carino’s Skilletini originated from the Italian-American restaurant chain Johnny Carino’s, known for its rustic, family-style meals.
The Skilletini dish became iconic for its sizzling presentation and bold flavors, combining sausage, pasta, and vegetables in a hot skillet.
What Does Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Taste Like?
This dish bursts with spicy sausage flavor, tangy marinara sauce, and tender pasta. The combination of sautéed onions and peppers adds a sweet and smoky touch that perfectly complements the savory sausage and sauce.
By the way, you can also try the Great Harvest Savannah Bar Recipe.
Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Italian sausage (mild or spicy) | 1 lb |
| Cooked spaghetti | 12 oz |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1 |
| Green bell pepper, sliced | 1 |
| Onion, sliced | 1 medium |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ½ tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | ¼ cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Easy Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe:
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Large pot for pasta
- Tongs or a spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving plate or skillet for presentation
How to Make Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned and crumbly. Take the sausage out of the pan and put it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until they become tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Combine
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Mix Pasta and Sausage
Add the cooked spaghetti and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated with sauce and heated through.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Garnish
Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve immediately in a hot skillet for that restaurant-style sizzle.
Recipe Card
Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned and crumbly. Take the sausage out of the pan and put it aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until they become tender and slightly caramelized.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated with sauce and heated through.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve immediately in a hot skillet for that restaurant-style sizzle.
Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 610 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Sugar | 8 g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve Johnny Carino’s Skilletini hot in a cast-iron skillet for that restaurant-style look. Pair it with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or a chilled glass of red wine for a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dinner everyone will enjoy.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little marinara sauce or water in a skillet to keep the pasta moist and flavors fresh.
Tips to Get the Perfect Sizzle at Home
Learn how to heat your skillet the right way, time the plating, and keep the signature sizzle alive just like in Johnny Carino’s restaurant.
These small tricks bring aroma, sound, and flavor together for the best experience.
Best Pasta Pairings for Skilletini
Spaghetti is classic, but other pasta types work too. Explore long and short pasta choices that hold sauce well and elevate every bite.
It’s your chance to match texture with bold flavors.
How to Balance the Spices in Skilletini
Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe can lean spicy, smoky, or tangy based on your taste. Learn how to adjust pepper, sausage heat, garlic, and marinara acidity so the flavors feel just right for you.
Johnny Carino’s Skilletini for Family Gatherings
Planning a cozy dinner or a big table feast? This Johnny Carino’s Skilletini Recipe scales easily. Here’s how to double portions, manage prep, and serve it hot without losing the fresh skillet charm.
Choosing the Best Marinara Sauce
Jar or homemade? Smooth or chunky? Sweet or tangy? Picking the right marinara makes a big impact. I’ll help you find one that matches the bold Italian-American flavor profile.
Cheese Options to Upgrade the Flavor
Parmesan is classic, but you have more choices. Try Pecorino, mozzarella, or a cheese blend. Each adds a unique melt, taste, and richness to your skillet pasta.
Side Dishes That Go Best With Skilletini
Complete your meal with simple sides that shine. From buttery garlic bread to crisp salads and roasted veggies, these pairings add freshness, crunch, and balance to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking pasta, using cold sauce, skipping seasoning, or plating late can ruin the magic.
Avoid these small missteps to keep your Skilletini rich, saucy, sizzling, and unforgettable.
Conclusion
Johnny Carino’s Skilletini is a flavorful, hearty meal that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. You’ll love every sizzling, saucy bite of this Italian-American classic.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of sausage should I use for Skilletini?
You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
Can I use penne instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely, penne or fettuccine both work perfectly with this sauce.
How can I make it less spicy?
Skip the red pepper flakes and use mild sausage.
Can I freeze Johnny Carino’s Skilletini?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
You will also like the Red Lobster Lobster Punch Recipe.
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