Spicy Sausage And Ricotta Pasta Recipe – Creamy ’Nduja Penne with a Kick

Spicy Sausage And Ricotta Pasta Recipe

This spicy sausage and ricotta pasta recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the bold heat of ’nduja for a quick and satisfying Italian meal. Featured on Bonacini’s Italy, this dish brings together penne pasta, spicy sausage, and Parmesan to create a comforting yet vibrant dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The Inspiration

This dish draws its inspiration from the bold and rustic flavors of Calabria in Southern Italy, where ’nduja sausage is a staple ingredient known for its fiery heat and spreadable texture. Unlike traditional cured sausages, ’nduja melts into sauces, infusing them with deep, smoky spice and richness. Chef Michael Bonacini embraces this regional specialty and pairs it with creamy ricotta cheese to create a beautifully balanced pasta dish that is both indulgent and approachable.

The inspiration behind this recipe lies in the Italian philosophy of using simple, high-quality ingredients to create something extraordinary. Rather than relying on complicated techniques, the dish focuses on contrast—spicy and creamy, rich and fresh, hearty yet light enough to enjoy any time of year. It reflects the essence of Bonacini’s Italy, where traditional flavors meet modern simplicity. Home cooks will love how quickly this dish comes together while still delivering restaurant-quality results, making it an ideal go-to recipe for both weeknight meals and relaxed dinner parties.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
• 1 large shallot, finely chopped
• 1 pound (454 g) penne
• ½ pound (227 g) nduja sausage, casing removed, cut into pieces
• 1 ½ cups (350 ml) fresh high-quality ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup (60 ml) grated parmesan, plus more for garnish
• Salt and pepper

Method

• Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add shallot and sauté until soft.
• Add pieces of nduja sausage and sauté, stirring occasionally.
• Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add pasta to the boiling water and cook 4-6 minutes, until al dente.
• While the pasta is cooking, combine ricotta cheese and parmesan in a bowl.
• Add ricotta mixture to pan with the cooking nduja and mix well, turning heat to low.
• When the pasta is al dente, drain, reserving a bit of the pasta water, then add the pasta and reserved water to the pan and toss to coat.
• Cook, tossing, until the pasta is coated and a sauce has formed.
• Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with parmesan, season with pepper and serve immediately.
• Buon appetito!

Serving Suggestion

This spicy sausage and ricotta pasta is the perfect dish for a variety of occasions, from quick weeknight dinners to relaxed weekend gatherings with friends and family. Its rich, creamy texture and bold, spicy flavor make it incredibly satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a range of simple sides. Serve it alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce, or complement it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

For a more elevated dining experience, consider pairing the dish with a medium-bodied Italian red wine such as Chianti, Montepulciano, or even a Nero d’Avola, all of which enhance the savory depth and spice of the ’nduja. If you’re hosting, this pasta works wonderfully as a main course served family-style, allowing guests to help themselves while enjoying a cozy, Italian-inspired meal. Finish with a light dessert like panna cotta or fresh fruit to balance the bold flavors of the main dish.

Final Thoughts

his spicy sausage and ricotta pasta recipe is a celebration of bold Italian flavors brought together in an incredibly simple and approachable way. The creamy ricotta mellows the heat of the ’nduja, while the Parmesan adds a savory depth that ties everything together beautifully. What makes this dish truly stand out is its ability to feel both indulgent and effortless, making it a reliable favorite for cooks of all skill levels.

Whether you’re looking to expand your pasta repertoire or simply want a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe delivers every time. It captures the heart of Italian cooking—using quality ingredients, respecting balance, and creating something comforting and delicious. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a personal treat after a long day.