Nduja and Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe

There is something incredibly comforting about a bubbling pasta bake that combines spicy, creamy, and savory flavors all in one dish. This Nduja and Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe captures that very magic, bringing together the fiery kick of nduja paste with the hearty goodness of sausage, nestled in a rich tomato and mascarpone sauce. It’s a perfect dish to share with friends or family, offering a cozy yet exciting flavor profile that makes every bite a celebration. Whether you’re new to nduja or a longtime fan, this pasta bake is bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes to the creamy mascarpone that balances out the spicy nduja, these components come together effortlessly for a hearty, delicious bake.

• Olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing and enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• 300 g cherry tomatoes: Adds sweetness and a juicy texture that perfectly complements the spicy sauce.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Brings concentrated tomato flavor and a beautiful richness to the sauce.
• 2 tbsp nduja paste: The star ingredient, delivering a spicy, smoky punch that defines the dish.
• 125 g mascarpone: Offers creaminess and softness, taming the heat and rounding out the sauce.
• Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant herbal note that lifts the entire dish.
• 400 g pasta (orecchiette preferred): The perfect pasta shape to catch the sauce and bits of sausage.
• Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the bake.
• Pepper: Adds subtle heat and seasoning complexity.
• Parmesan, for grating: A salty, nutty topping that gratinates beautifully under the grill.
• 1 ball of mozzarella: Melts into gooey pockets, adding luscious texture to the bake.

How to Make Nduja and Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a large pan. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to burst and release their juices, creating a naturally sweet and slightly tangy base. Stir in the tomato paste and nduja paste, allowing the spices and smokiness to infuse into the tomatoes. The sauce should be vibrant and fragrant, hinting at the layered flavors to come.

Step 2: Incorporate Mascarpone and Basil

Lower the heat and mix in the mascarpone, stirring gently until the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy. Add torn fresh basil leaves for a fresh herbal brightness that balances the richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that the nduja already brings a generous seasoning.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook your choice of pasta—orecchiette works beautifully for this bake but any short pasta, like penne or rigatoni, will suffice. Make sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven and you want to avoid a mushy texture.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Drain the pasta and toss it into the sauce, making sure every piece is generously coated. This is where the magic really happens; that spicy, creamy sauce clinging lovingly to each bite of pasta promises a comforting experience.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Transfer half of the pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Tear pieces of mozzarella across the layer and sprinkle some grated Parmesan. Add the remaining pasta on top and finish with a final grating of Parmesan to ensure a golden, bubbling crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into a preheated oven and bake until the cheese turns golden and bubbly, about 20 minutes. The mozzarella should be delightfully gooey, while the Parmesan crisps up to add a satisfying crunch.

How to Serve Nduja and Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness that cuts beautifully through the richness of the bake. For an added touch, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a grating of extra Parmesan on top just before serving elevates the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, which provides a crisp, refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty ciabatta bread is also a fantastic choice to scoop up every last bit of that spicy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the pasta bake in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation, perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in. You can also add roasted vegetables on the side, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for added color and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pasta bake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the sauce and cheese.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe container. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at a moderate temperature to revive the melted cheese and crisp crust. Cover with foil if necessary to prevent over-browning. Microwave works in a pinch but may make the cheese less appealing.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage instead of nduja?

Yes, but keep in mind that nduja has a unique spicy and spreadable quality. Using a regular sausage will change the flavor profile, so you might want to add some chili flakes or smoked paprika to mimic the heat and smokiness.

Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners?

Absolutely! Despite its rich flavors, this bake comes together quickly with straightforward steps, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying weeknight meal that impresses with minimal fuss.

What pasta works best in this bake?

Orecchiette is ideal because its cup-like shape holds onto the sauce perfectly, but penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great alternatives if that’s what you have on hand.

How spicy is this Nduja and Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe?

The heat level depends on the nduja brand you choose. Most nduja has a gentle, lingering spice rather than overwhelming heat, making it accessible for many palates while still packing a flavorful punch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that combines warmth, spice, and comfort all in one, you absolutely need to try this Nduja and Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of bold Italian flavors with a creamy, cheesy finish that feels like a big, delicious hug. Whether for a cozy night in or sharing with friends, this pasta bake truly shines—don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes one of your favorite recipes to turn to again and again.

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