Mussels Fra Diavolo Recipe
Sweet, tender mussels in spicy, garlicky, diced tomato sauce. Mussels fra diavolo take minimal effort for maximum flavor!
How to Make the Best Mussels Fra Diavolo
Mussels fra diavolo is an elegant yet surprisingly simple Italian seafood dish that delivers bold, spicy flavors in minimal time. The name translates to “mussels of the devil,” a fitting title for this fiery pasta companion that’s bound to become a dinner party favorite.
The magic of this dish lies in its straightforward technique and quality ingredients. Sweet, briny mussels are perfectly complemented by a garlicky tomato sauce infused with the subtle smokiness of pancetta and the heat of red pepper flakes. The white wine adds acidity and depth, while the natural juices from the mussels create a rich, flavorful broth that’s absolutely divine when served with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop.
What makes mussels fra diavolo truly special is how quickly it comes together—from prep to plate in under 30 minutes. It’s an excellent choice for impressive weeknight dinners or when you want to showcase your cooking skills without spending hours in the kitchen.
Mussels Fra Diavolo
Sweet, tender mussels in spicy, garlicky, diced tomato sauce. Mussels fra diavolo take minimal effort for maximum flavor!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation
- Open bag of mussels into a colander. Rinse with cold water. Inspect mussels and remove any 'beards'. Discard any open mussels or mussels with broken shells.
Cooking
- In a large sauté skillet, heat olive oil over medium to medium-high heat. Add pancetta and cook until fat is rendered and pancetta is lightly browned.
- Add sliced garlic and sauté until just browned, about 2 minutes. Add shallots and cook for 1 minute.
- Carefully add mussels to the pan and immediately deglaze the pan with the white wine. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan.
- Add tomatoes, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine. Let the heat from the sauce steam the mussels open while the sauce reduces, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Serve right away, especially with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
- Best served immediately with crusty bread for dipping.
- For maximum flavor, use fresh mussels from a quality seafood market.
- Don't skip the deglazing step—it builds the depth of flavor in the sauce.