Spicy 'Nduja & Broccolini Skillet Cavatappi Bake

Craft a show-stopping weeknight meal with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. This Spicy 'Nduja & Broccolini Skillet Cavatappi Bake combines chewy pasta, vibrant broccolini, and the fiery, savory kick of 'nduja sausage. Baked to cheesy perfection in one pan, it’s the ultimate comforting dish that's surprisingly easy to master.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 oz 'nduja sausage, casing removed, crumbled
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bunch broccolini (about 8 oz), trimmed and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 12 oz cavatappi pasta, uncooked
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (10-12 inch cast iron or similar) over medium heat. Add crumbled 'nduja and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fragrant and its oils render (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic, being careful not to burn.
4. Add chopped broccolini to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender-crisp.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes, broth, heavy cream, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in the uncooked cavatappi pasta, ensuring it's mostly submerged in the sauce.
7. Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the pasta.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, the sauce has thickened, and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Carefully remove from oven. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

Chef's Note

For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of dry red wine (like a Sangiovese) to the skillet after the garlic and let it reduce before adding tomatoes.

Make-Ahead Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave. Not suitable for freezing once baked with pasta.

Substitutions

**'Nduja:** Use spicy Italian sausage (casing removed) with an added pinch of smoked paprika and extra red pepper flakes, or Calabrian chili paste for a vegetarian option.,**Broccolini:** Broccoli florets, rapini, or even spinach can be used. Add spinach in the last 5 minutes of baking.,**Cavatappi:** Penne, rigatoni, or orecchiette are good alternatives.,**Heavy Cream:** For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.