Why Make This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
If you’re looking for a pasta dish that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, look no further than Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel. This hearty meal harmonizes the rich creaminess of heavy cream with the spicy kick of Calabrian chili paste, creating a sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. The Italian sausage brings a savory depth, while the fennel adds a unique sweetness and an anise-like aroma, balancing the spice beautifully. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend meal, this recipe is sure to impress!
How to Make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
Making this pasta dish is an enjoyable and straightforward process that anyone can master. Start by cooking the pappardelle in boiling salted water. While it’s cooking, you’ll prepare a flavorful sauce by sautéing sausage with fennel and garlic in a skillet. The addition of Calabrian chili paste and heavy cream pulls everything together in a luxurious sauce. Toss the pasta with the sauce, add a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and you have a delicious meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet)
- 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 tbsp Calabrian chili paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh fennel fronds or herbs, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the fennel and garlic. Sauté until they are softened and fragrant.
- Lower the heat and stir in the Calabrian chili paste. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked pappardelle to the skillet and toss gently to coat. If needed, add pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fennel fronds or your favorite herbs.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 563
- Total Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 23g
How to Serve Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the dining experience even more! Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, complements the flavors beautifully. This dish is also great for a cozy dinner gathering—just double the recipe to feed a crowd!
How to Store Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but can happen!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help the sauce regain its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta mushy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after browning the sausage—this deglazes the pan and adds depth to the sauce.
- If you can’t find Calabrian chili paste, you can use harissa or sriracha as alternatives, adjusting the amount to reach your desired spice level.
- Always reserve some pasta water! It helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency and makes it cling better to the noodles.
- For a vegetarian option, swap out the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Delicious Variations
- Seafood Twist: Swap the sausage for shrimp or scallops for a lighter seafood version. Add the seafood towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Veggie Lover’s Delight: Incorporate more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheesy Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli to the pappardelle during the last two minutes of cooking for a nutritious touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before adding the cooked pasta.Is Calabrian chili paste very spicy?
It has a bit of heat, but it’s also fruity in flavor. Adjust the amount to your preference, or use less if you’re sensitive to spice.Can this recipe be gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular pappardelle with a gluten-free pasta alternative available in stores, and enjoy a gluten-free meal without sacrificing taste.
Conclusion
Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel combines comforting creaminess with a spicy kick, making it an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any pasta lover. This recipe brings vibrant flavors and textures to your table, providing a luxurious dining experience at home. So what are you waiting for? Gather the ingredients, get cooking, and indulge in this delectable pasta! Don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends and family—they’ll be begging for the recipe!