When you think of pasta dishes, black pudding might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind. However, this rich, savoury, and slightly spiced delicacy pairs beautifully with pasta, creating a dish that’s both comforting and full of bold flavour. If you love traditional Italian cuisine but want to experiment with something new, black pudding pasta is a must-try!
In this blog, we’ll explore why black pudding pasta works so well, the best ingredients to pair it with, and a simple recipe to help you create this delicious fusion dish at home.
Why Black Pudding Pasta Works
Black pudding is known for its deep, earthy flavour and crumbly texture, making it an excellent addition to pasta. Here’s why it works so well:
- Rich, savoury taste – The umami depth of black pudding enhances the flavour of simple pasta dishes.
- Crispy or soft texture – When crumbled and pan-fried, black pudding adds a slightly crispy bite that contrasts beautifully with soft pasta.
- Versatility – It pairs well with creamy, tomato-based, or even garlic butter sauces.
- Nutrient-dense – Packed with iron and protein, black pudding is a hearty addition to any meal.
Best Pasta Pairings for Black Pudding
Not all pasta shapes and sauces complement black pudding equally. Here are the best combinations:
Pasta Shapes:
- Tagliatelle or Pappardelle – Their wide, ribbon-like structure holds rich sauces and black pudding crumbles well.
- Orecchiette – Small cup-shaped pasta that catches bits of black pudding and sauce in every bite.
- Rigatoni or Penne – Tube pasta that allows pieces of black pudding to mix evenly throughout the dish.
Sauce Pairings:
- Creamy Garlic Sauce – A simple garlic, butter, and cream sauce enhances the richness of the black pudding.
- Tomato & Chilli Sauce – The acidity of tomatoes and heat from chilli help balance the bold flavour of black pudding.
- Sage & Butter Sauce – The herby, nutty notes of sage complement black pudding beautifully.
Black Pudding Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 200g pasta (tagliatelle, pappardelle, or rigatoni)
- 150g black pudding (crumbled)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 100ml double cream
- 50g Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tsp chilli flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Black Pudding
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the crumbled black pudding and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Sauce
- In the same pan, add another 1 tbsp olive oil, then sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Pour in the double cream, stirring gently. Add chilli flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in the black pudding, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and mix again.
- Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Serve immediately with a glass of red wine or a crisp cider for the perfect pairing.
Creative Ways to Elevate Black Pudding Pasta
- Add Crispy Bacon – The saltiness complements the richness of the dish.
- Include Mushrooms – Their earthy flavour pairs well with black pudding.
- Use Truffle Oil – A drizzle adds a luxurious finish.
- Try a Poached Egg on Top – The runny yolk adds extra creaminess.
Black pudding pasta is a truly unique dish that combines bold, rich flavours with classic Italian comfort food. Whether you love traditional British black pudding or are trying it for the first time, this pasta dish is a delicious way to experiment in the kitchen.
Want high-quality black pudding for your next meal? Try our smoked black pudding here:
👉 Franconian Smoked Black Pudding
📞 Contact us: 01892 837816
📧 Email: orders@franconian.co.uk
Black Pudding Pasta FAQs
Q1: Can I use pre-cooked black pudding for this recipe?
A1: Yes! Most black pudding is already cooked, so you just need to heat and crisp it up in the pan.
Q2: What cheese pairs well with black pudding pasta?
A2: Parmesan, blue cheese, or mature cheddar all add great depth of flavour.
Q3: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A3: You can swap black pudding for a vegetarian black pudding alternative, available at many supermarkets.
