Olivia If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors, my Spicy ‘Nduja Seafood in Tomato Broth is exactly what you need. I love cooking this seafood feast because the spicy, spreadable ‘nduja melts into a rich tomato broth, creating a luxurious, silky sauce that clings to every bite of shrimp, mussels, and clams. The aroma alone will have your family circling the kitchen, and the first taste will have them asking for seconds. This dish is the ultimate combination of heat, comfort, and Italian-inspired flair, and it’s surprisingly quick to make. From the moment the broth simmers to the final sprinkle of fresh parsley, you’ll feel like a professional chef serving up a restaurant-quality seafood stew right at home.
What’s on the Plate
Overview
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired seafood
- Course: Main dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
What’s in Every Bite
- Calories: 350
- Carbs: 15g
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
Total Recipe Cost
- Estimated Total Cost: $22.00
- Cost Per Serving: $5.50
- Main Cost Factors: Fresh seafood, ‘nduja, and quality canned tomatoes
The Story Behind the Flavor
Spicy ‘Nduja Seafood in Tomato Broth combines the fiery Italian sausage ‘nduja with fresh seafood, a concept rooted in Calabria, Italy, where ‘nduja originates. Traditionally, ‘nduja is a spreadable, cured pork sausage infused with chili peppers, and it has been a staple in Southern Italian kitchens since the 18th century. Pairing it with seafood is a more modern Italian-American twist, creating a rich, flavorful stew that enhances the natural sweetness of shellfish with the sausage’s smoky heat. Traditionally, this dish would simmer slowly in a rustic pot, allowing the flavors to meld while fishermen’s families in coastal villages enjoyed it with crusty bread or over pasta.
Perfect For
- This flavorful chicken piccata is more than just a dinner — it’s a little moment of joy on a plate. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want a spicy twist to keep everyone excited at the table, without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Hosting friends or family? This dish impresses effortlessly. The buttery lemon sauce and tender chicken make it look and taste like a restaurant-quality meal, but with minimal fuss — you’ll get all the compliments and none of the stress.
- It’s also ideal for cozy family meals that feel indulgent without being complicated. Serve it over pasta, rice, or roasted veggies, and everyone feels like they’re getting a special dinner, even on a Tuesday night.
- And for seafood lovers, swap in shrimp or scallops for an easy Italian-style twist — it’s quick, satisfying, and has that tangy, buttery flavor that makes everyone swoon.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Oh, let me tell you, this seafood stew is a total showstopper — and yet, it’s so easy that even a busy weeknight can handle it! First, the flavor: it’s bursting with bold, spicy goodness thanks to the ‘nduja. That little hit of heat perfectly balances the sweetness of tender shrimp, mussels, and clams, making every bite a little celebration in your mouth.
- The seafood itself is tender and perfectly cooked, swimming in a savory, garlicky tomato broth that practically begs for crusty bread or a pile of pasta to sop up every last drop. Seriously, your guests (or your family) will be licking their plates — in the best way.
- And here’s the best part: it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is minimal, and prep is quick. You can have this gorgeous, restaurant-worthy dish on the table in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you want something special without spending all evening in the kitchen. Comforting, impressive, and flavorful — all in one beautiful pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb mussels, cleaned
- 1 lb clams, cleaned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 oz ‘nduja sausage
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Add-ins
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat
- ½ cup white wine for depth of flavor
- Zest of 1 lemon for brightness
Ingredient Highlights
- ‘Nduja: This spicy, spreadable sausage is the flavor powerhouse of the dish.
- Fresh Seafood: Shrimp, mussels, and clams provide a mix of textures and natural sweetness.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Form the rich, silky base for the broth.
- Garlic and Onion: Aromatics that infuse the broth with depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Cook the ‘Nduja: Add ‘nduja to the skillet and break it up with a spoon, allowing it to melt into the oil.
- Build the Broth: Stir in crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, and optional white wine. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the Seafood: Toss in shrimp, mussels, and clams. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until mussels and clams open and shrimp turn pink.
- Finish and Serve: Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
Pro Tips
- Choose fresh, high-quality seafood – This is non-negotiable, friends! The shrimp, mussels, and clams really get to shine when they’re fresh. If you can swing by a local fish market or get them from a trusted fishmonger, do it. Fresh seafood takes your stew from “pretty good” to “I feel like I’m dining by the seaside” in one bite.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – These little beauties are delicate and will turn rubbery faster than you can blink. Add them toward the end of cooking and let the simmering tomato broth do its magic for just a few minutes. When they’re pink, tender, and slightly plump, they’re ready. Perfection!
- Serve immediately with crusty bread – No waiting, no cooling down. A warm, crusty baguette or ciabatta is your best friend here — perfect for soaking up every last drop of that rich, garlicky, slightly spicy broth. Warning: family members may hover near the pot, stealing bites while you’re plating. That’s part of the fun!
- Check your shellfish – After cooking, take a peek: any mussels or clams that didn’t open? Toss them. They’re just being stubborn. The rest will be tender, flavorful, and perfect for piling onto pasta, rice, or straight from the pot.
- Optional flavor boost – A squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving adds that bright, fresh pop that makes the dish feel special. It’s your little chef’s touch that makes it look as stunning as it tastes — Instagram-worthy without even trying.
Recipe Variations
- Creamy Version – If you love a little indulgence, swirl in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking. Suddenly, your tomato broth transforms into a silky, luxurious sauce that clings to every piece of seafood. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for those nights when you just want a cozy hug in a bowl. Comfort food level: 100%!
- Pasta Option – Turn this stew into a hearty seafood pasta by tossing in cooked spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine right into the simmering broth. Every strand soaks up that garlicky, slightly spicy goodness, creating a one-pot dinner that feels fancy but is still totally doable on a busy weeknight. Bonus: your family will think you spent hours cooking, but really? Minimal effort, maximum flavor.
- Extra Veggies – Want to sneak in some extra color (and nutrition)? Slice up bell peppers, zucchini, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes and stir them in toward the end of cooking. They’ll stay slightly crisp, add vibrant pops of color, and make the stew feel even fresher and more lively. Your kids might even ask for seconds without realizing they just ate their veggies!
- Spice Lovers’ Twist – For those who like it hot, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle in some chili oil. It adds a gentle heat that plays beautifully with the richness of the seafood, giving it just the right kick without overpowering anyone at the table.
- Herby Fresh Finish – Toss in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme just before serving. It brightens every bite, makes your stew look gorgeous, and instantly gives your dinner that “restaurant-worthy” vibe, right in your cozy kitchen. Plus, the aroma will make the whole house feel like a trattoria in Italy.
Gluten-Free Version
Good news, friends — this spicy seafood stew is naturally gluten-free! It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like shrimp, mussels, clams, and tomatoes that don’t contain any hidden gluten. That said, if you’re cooking for someone with strict dietary needs, it’s always smart to double-check your pantry. Make sure your crushed tomatoes are labeled gluten-free and that your ‘nduja or any pre-made spice paste doesn’t sneak in any wheat-based fillers. Once you’ve got your safe ingredients lined up, you can dive into this cozy, flavorful stew without a second thought — and everyone at the table can enjoy every spicy, garlicky bite worry-free.
Kid-Friendly Version
If your little ones are more “tiny taste buds” than spice adventurers, don’t worry — you can still make this stew a family favorite! Swap the full-strength ‘nduja for a milder version, or simply reduce the chili so the heat stays gentle. Keep the seafood tender and flavorful, but approachable, and serve it with plenty of crusty bread for dipping. Kids love the hands-on fun of scooping up those savory, tomatoey bites with bread, and it turns mealtime into a little interactive adventure. Bonus tip: you can even serve a small bowl of plain pasta on the side for picky eaters who like to keep things simple — everyone gets a version they love!
Spicy ‘Nduja Seafood in Tomato Broth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add ‘nduja to the skillet and break it up with a spoon, allowing it to melt into the oil.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, and optional white wine. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Toss in shrimp, mussels, and clams. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until mussels and clams open and shrimp turn pink.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
Notes
Use a mix of shrimp, mussels, clams, or firm white fish. Fresh seafood cooks quickly and keeps the broth flavorful. Handle ‘Nduja Carefully
This spicy spreadable sausage adds heat — start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Build Flavor in Layers
Sauté garlic, onions, and ‘nduja first to infuse the oil before adding tomatoes. This ensures a rich, aromatic base. Simmer, Don’t Boil
Gently simmer the broth so the seafood cooks evenly and remains tender. Boiling can make shrimp rubbery or mussels tough. Season Gradually
Taste before adding extra salt — ‘nduja and seafood already provide a good amount of seasoning. Fresh Herbs Finish
Add parsley, basil, or thyme at the end to brighten the flavors without wilting them. Serve Immediately
Seafood is best served hot from the pot with crusty bread to soak up the tomato broth. Optional Heat Boosters
For extra kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle a touch of chili oil when serving. Make Ahead Tip
Prepare the tomato base a day ahead — just add seafood at the last minute to keep it perfectly cooked.
Taste What’s Next
Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime-Chili Sauce
Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado-Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice
Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
or you Can Dig Deeper Recipes by clicking this: Appetizer, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Got leftovers? Lucky you — this seafood stew keeps its flavor beautifully if handled with a little TLC.
Storage: Carefully transfer any remaining stew into an airtight container and tuck it into the fridge. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days. I like to label mine with the date so I can keep track, because let’s be honest — sometimes life gets busy and things get forgotten in the back of the fridge! This way, you can enjoy those savory, tomatoey, slightly spicy flavors again without feeling like you’re reheating a sad, overcooked mess.
Reheating: Patience is key here. Pour the stew into a saucepan and warm it gently over low to medium heat. This keeps the shrimp, mussels, and clams from turning rubbery or overcooked — nobody wants chewy seafood, right? Stir occasionally, and let the steam work its magic, bringing the broth back to life. Once everything is heated through, serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or toss it over pasta for an easy, comforting meal that tastes like it just came off the stove. Bonus mom tip: sprinkle a little fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving — it makes leftovers feel fancy and loved all over again.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
- Spoon for stirring
- Small bowls for prepping ingredients
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe? Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to prevent excess water in the broth.
What is ‘nduja and can I substitute it? ‘Nduja is a spicy Calabrian pork sausage. Substitute with chorizo or another spreadable sausage, adjusting spice levels to taste.
Can I make this spicy ‘nduja seafood in tomato broth ahead of time? You can prep the broth ahead, but cook the seafood fresh just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with this spicy seafood tomato stew? Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or over your favorite pasta.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Reduce the amount of ‘nduja or skip additional red pepper flakes.
External Resources
Conclusion
Spicy ‘Nduja Seafood in Tomato Broth is the ultimate weeknight showstopper. The bold, smoky flavors of ‘nduja blend perfectly with tender shrimp, mussels, and clams, while the tomato broth ties it all together into a comforting, indulgent dish. I love how quick it comes together and how the whole family dives right in for seconds. So grab your skillet, heat up that broth, and get ready to wow everyone at the table. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it online. tag me!—I want to see your seafood masterpiece! Happy cooking!
