Pancetta

Sus scrofa domesticus (pork belly) Cured Meat, Pork

Pancetta Cured Meat, Pork

At a Glance

  • Category Cured Meat, Pork

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero: elevating dishes with its subtle saltiness and umami, pancetta offers texture and depth without overpowering."

Definition

Italian cured pork belly, typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and spices, then air-dried. It's often rolled (arrotolata) or flat (tesa).

Curing Time 3 weeks to 3-4 months
Primary Origin Italy
Traditional Seasonings Salt, Pepper, Nutmeg, Juniper

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pancetta are:

Salty savory slightly sweet porky umami-rich subtly spiced

Chef’s Secret

Render pancetta slowly on low heat until crispy; the rendered fat is liquid gold for sautéing vegetables or making a flavorful pan sauce.

Best Substitutes

Bacon

but often smokier
Ratio 1:1

Guanciale

richer, fattier
Ratio 1:1

Prosciutto

for raw applications or crisped, less fatty
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Sold sliced or in a block. Look for a balance of lean meat and fat. Can be found in the deli or cured meats section.

Recipes Using Pancetta

30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less

Baked Egg Boats

Crispy baguette boats overflowing with a creamy, savory egg mixture and delicious pancetta (or bacon!). This easy recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a light dinner. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunning and flavorful dish! Inspired by SpoonForkBacon.com.

See Complete Recipe
Vegetables Cuisine European Meat

Beef Stew In Red Wine Sauce

Indulge in this rich and flavorful Beef Stew in Red Wine Sauce, inspired by the culinary genius of Jacques Pépin. Tender beef, slow-cooked to perfection in a robust red wine sauce, and complemented by perfectly browned vegetables. This elegant yet comforting dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner.

See Complete Recipe
Course Main Dish One Dish Meal Preparation

Basil Lovers Tomato Cream Penne

Indulge in this incredibly easy and flavorful Basil Lovers Tomato Cream Penne! Ready in just 20 minutes, this creamy pasta dish bursts with fresh basil and savory pancetta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine 60 Minutes Or Less Asparagus Pasta Rice And Grains

Asparagus Lasagna Giada De Laurentiis

This vibrant asparagus lasagna is a delightful twist on a classic! Sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy ricotta create a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue. Skip the pancetta for a lighter option, or include it for extra richness. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning lasagna lover! Prepare to be amazed by this fresh and exciting take on a timeless favorite.

See Complete Recipe
Salads Course Time To Make Salads

Barefoot Contessa's Caesar Salad With Pancetta

Ina Garten's iconic Caesar Salad, as seen on her 'Picnic at the Pond' episode, gets a delicious upgrade with crispy pancetta and perfectly roasted tomatoes. Don't skip the anchovies – they're the secret to a truly incredible dressing! This recipe is perfect for a summer gathering or a special weeknight dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

See Complete Recipe
Course Pork Ham Preparation

1789 Apple Arugula Salad With Aged Gouda And Crisped Pancetta

A taste of Georgetown history! This elegant salad, a former favorite at the renowned 1789 restaurant, features crisp pancetta, thinly sliced apples, peppery arugula, and creamy aged Gouda, all tossed in a luscious homemade cider vinaigrette. Chef Ris Lacoste's recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated weeknight dinner. The vinaigrette recipe makes extra, so you'll have delicious dressing on hand for future salads!

See Complete Recipe
European Meat Preparation Dietary

Tripe Alla Romana

Experience the rich, savory flavors of authentic Roman-style tripe! This Tripe alla Romana recipe, inspired by CookiesfromItaly.com, will transport you to the heart of Italy with its tender tripe simmered in a fragrant tomato and herb sauce. A classic Roman comfort food, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Prepare for a culinary journey that will leave you craving more!

See Complete Recipe
Chicken Condiments Etc Savory Poultry

America's Test Kitchen Ragu Alla Bolognese

Experience an umami explosion with this rich and decadent Bolognese sauce, enough to coat 2 pounds of pasta! This America's Test Kitchen recipe, inspired by Season 13's Ultimate Italian episode, delivers a silky, meaty sauce that's perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal. Leftovers? Even better! Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Get ready to pass the Parmesan!

See Complete Recipe
Pasta Rice And Grains Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Rice

Barefoot Contessa's Butternut Squash Risotto

Ina Garten's (Barefoot Contessa) unforgettable Butternut Squash Risotto recipe, as seen on her Food Network show "Weekend Lunch." This creamy, dreamy risotto features perfectly roasted butternut squash and is surprisingly easy to make! A fall and winter staple that's guaranteed to impress.

See Complete Recipe
Toddler Friendly Number Of Servings Kid Friendly 30 Minutes Or Less

Angel Hair Pasta With Pancetta And Broccoli Iron Chef Michael's

This quick and easy Angel Hair Pasta recipe, inspired by Iron Chef Michael Symon's appearance on The Chew, is bursting with flavor! Crispy pancetta, tender broccoli, and toasted garlic create a delicious sauce that perfectly coats the delicate angel hair pasta. A simple recipe with big results, ready in under 30 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Meat Beef Main Dish Ground Beef

Baked Spaghetti Sauce

This incredibly flavorful baked spaghetti sauce is a family pleaser! Tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with pancetta, rosemary, and sundried tomatoes, then baked to perfection. Easy to make and guaranteed to be a new family favorite!

See Complete Recipe
Meat Meat Main Dish Course

Baked Shells With Fresh Spinach And Pancetta

This decadent, prepare-ahead pasta bake is inspired by Nancy Verde Barr's January 1993 Food & Wine Magazine recipe. Creamy tomato sauce, crispy pancetta (or prosciutto!), and tender spinach perfectly complement perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells. A one-dish wonder perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

See Complete Recipe
Vegetables 30 Minutes Or Less For 1 Or 2 Time To Make

Asparagus Carbonara

This lush and lightning-fast Asparagus Carbonara recipe is a taste sensation! Perfectly tender asparagus and al dente pasta are tossed in a creamy parmesan sauce with crispy pancetta. A quick weeknight meal that's surprisingly elegant.

See Complete Recipe
Course Course 60 Minutes Or Less Salads

Baby Frise With Poached Egg And Pancetta

A delightful Cucina Rustica recipe! This elegant yet rustic salad features tender baby frise leaves tossed in a vibrant vinaigrette, topped with perfectly poached eggs and crispy pancetta. A simple yet impressive dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.

See Complete Recipe
Ground Beef Ground Beef European Meat

Authentic Rag Alla Bolognese

Discover the true taste of Italy with this authentic Ragù alla Bolognese recipe! Developed after 3.5 years living in Northern Italy, this recipe captures the essence of the classic sauce, as enjoyed in countless Italian homes and restaurants. Unlike many modern interpretations, this recipe stays true to tradition – no herbs, just the perfect balance of salt, pepper, and rich, savory meats. Experience the depth of flavor from slow-cooked pancetta (or bacon, if needed) and the finest quality ingredients. Prepare for a culinary journey that transports you straight to the heart of Italy!

See Complete Recipe
Oven Stove Top Course Weeknight

Baked Pasta With Sausage And Zucchini

Experience the irresistible flavors of this baked pasta dish! Inspired by Nick Stellino, this recipe combines savory Italian sausage, tender zucchini, and creamy mozzarella in a rich tomato sauce, all baked to golden perfection. A comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or weeknight treats.

See Complete Recipe
Occasion Taste Mood Lasagna Preparation

30 Minute Lasagna Bowls

Craving classic lasagna but short on time? This recipe delivers all the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna in just 30 minutes! We skip the layering and use curly pasta as a delicious base, tossed with creamy béchamel and a hearty meat sauce. A perfect weeknight meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy.

See Complete Recipe
Greens Pork Meat Eggs

Artichoke Pancetta And Spinach Frittata

A delightful springtime frittata bursting with the flavors of artichoke hearts, crispy pancetta, and tender spinach. Perfect for brunch, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner party starter. Best served warm with fresh fruit and a mimosa made with prosecco for a truly elegant experience!

See Complete Recipe