Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsRicco's Italian BistroGhost Pep Penne Recipe

Ghost Pep Penne Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Italian sausage, bell peppers and ghost pepper Cheddar in a spicy pink sauce. Served with either our house salad, Caesar salad or soup

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Ingredients

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Pasta and Sauce

Method

Pasta and Sauce Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    Cook the Sausage

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 3

    Sauté the Vegetables

    Add the minced garlic and chopped bell peppers to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the peppers are tender.

  4. 4

    Make the Sauce

    Pour in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

  5. 5

    Add the Cheese

    Stir in the ghost pepper cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

  6. 6

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serving

  1. 7

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the ghost pepper penne hot, accompanied by your choice of house salad, Caesar salad, or soup.

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