The Romantic Origin Story Of Italy's Triple Burro Pasta

Triple burro pasta, also known as triple butter pasta, is a rich and decadent dish that has become a favorite among pasta lovers around the world. But what you might not know is that this creamy pasta dish has a unique origin story that dates back to 1907 when it was invented by Italian chef Alfredo di Lelio. Yes, the same chef that invented pasta alfredo. 

If you're familiar with alfredo sauce, you probably know that it is quite a simple sauce that requires fewer ingredients than most people realize. While it is similar to triple burro pasta in that it is made with butter and parmesan cheese, it only uses butter during the cooking process. Triple burro, just as the name says, uses butter during the cooking process and even more butter to top the pasta with. 

Though the two types of pasta dishes seem incredibly similar, it is the heart-warming story behind triple burro pasta that really makes the rich, indulgent pasta stand out.

The story goes that di Lelio's wife had just given birth to their first child and was feeling weak and tired. In an effort to nourish and comfort her, Alfredo created a special dish that was rich in calories and easy to digest. He combined pasta with a whole lot of butter added at different points of the cooking process, creating a creamy and indulgent dish that his wife loved.

Word of di Lelio's triple butter pasta quickly spread, and it became a popular dish among locals and visitors alike. In 1927, the dish caught the attention of two American actors, Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks, who were on their honeymoon in Italy. They visited the chef's restaurant and were so impressed with the dish that they brought the recipe back to Hollywood, where it quickly became a favorite among celebrities and foodies.

While some may view triple burro pasta as a guilty pleasure, its origin story reminds us of the power of food to nourish and comfort us during difficult times. And with its creamy, buttery goodness, it's no wonder that triple burro pasta has become a beloved dish that has stood the test of time.