Name: Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Pappardelle pasta (fettuccine or tagliatelle can be used as substitutes); 1 lb Italian sausage (for vegetarian, replace with sautéed mushrooms); 1 Fennel bulb (thinly sliced; can swap with onion if preferred); 3 cloves Garlic (minced; garlic powder can be used in a pinch); 1/2 cup Heavy cream (half-and-half is a lighter option); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated; nutritional yeast is a vegan substitute); 2 tbsp Calabrian chili paste (adjust to preferred spice level); 2 tbsp Olive oil (many oils can be used, but olive adds great flavor); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); Fresh parsley (for garnish; basil is an alternative)

There’s something magical about coming home to a warm, inviting dish that makes the entire day seem worthwhile. Enter my Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel—an enchanting meal that effortlessly elevates your pasta game. This recipe combines the comforting creaminess of a rich sauce with the subtle heat of Calabrian chili, creating a truly satisfying experience for your taste buds. Plus, it’s a quick-prep wonder that transforms a weeknight dinner into a gourmet affair, while also offering a delicious vegetarian twist if you opt for sautéed mushrooms instead of sausage. So, whether you’re looking to impress a loved one or simply treat yourself, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Are you ready to explore the deliciousness that awaits you?

Why is Calabrian Chili Pappardelle special?

Comforting Richness: This creamy dish envelops pappardelle in a luscious sauce, turning basic pasta into an indulgent culinary delight.

Mildly Spicy Flavor: The addition of Calabrian chili gives a gentle kick that elevates the dish without overwhelming your palate.

Quick and Easy: In under 30 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Customizable Options: Whether you stick to savory sausage or swap it for sautéed mushrooms, this recipe adapts beautifully to dietary preferences.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Perfect Companion: Pair your Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with a side of Cinnamon Focaccia Brown or a refreshing glass of Pink Lemonade Refreshing for a delightful feast!

Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Pappardelle pasta – The wide ribbons create a lovely texture that holds sauce beautifully; fettuccine or tagliatelle are great substitutes.

For the Sauce
• Italian sausage (1 lb) – Offers a robust, meaty flavor; for vegetarian options, replace with sautéed mushrooms.
• Fennel bulb (1, thinly sliced) – Adds sweet, anise-like depth; can be swapped with onion if preferred.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic warmth; feel free to use garlic powder in a pinch.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup) – Ensures a rich and creamy sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter option.
• Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated) – Enhances the sauce’s flavor; nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute.
• Calabrian chili paste (2 tbsp) – Infuses the dish with heat and flavor; adjust to your preferred spice level.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp) – Used for sautéing and adds richness; any cooking oil will work, but olive imparts a wonderful flavor.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings for enhancing taste; adjust to suit your palate.

For Garnish
• Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Adds a touch of freshness and color to the final dish; basil is a delightful alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the pappardelle and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until al dente; it should be tender but firm to the bite. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water in a bowl. Drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, crumble in the Italian sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns a golden brown and is fully cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan, and set it aside on a plate for later.

Step 3: Caramelize the Fennel
Add the thinly sliced fennel to the same skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fennel is soft and lightly caramelized. The natural sugars will bring out a sweet flavor. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant and golden, infusing the mixture with savory aromas.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the Calabrian chili paste and heavy cream into the fennel mixture. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and well combined, warming it gently to prevent boiling. The creamy sauce should take on a lovely orange hue from the chili paste, enticing you to continue with your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to mix well. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce slightly thickens, coating the sausage in a delightful creamy layer. This step is crucial for achieving that glorious richness for your Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta
Introduce the drained pappardelle to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta thoroughly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until you reach a silky consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta ribbons.

Step 7: Serve the Dish
Season your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle with sausage and fennel with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch of color and flavor. The combination of spicy and savory elements will surprise and delight your taste buds with every bite.

What to Serve with Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Imagine a cozy dinner table adorned with flavors that dance together, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted, the buttery, garlic-infused bread complements the creamy sauce while offering a satisfying crunch.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty contrast, cutting through the richness of the pappardelle and enhancing every bite.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach with olive oil and a touch of lemon provides a vibrant, nutrient-packed side that balances the meal’s flavors beautifully.
Charred Asparagus: Grilled asparagus drizzled with balsamic glaze introduces earthy notes and a lovely char that pairs delightfully with the creamy pasta.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: These burst in flavor, bringing sweetness to the dish while harmonizing with the mild spice of the Calabrian chili.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc elevates the dining experience, refreshing your palate between bites of the enticing pappardelle.
Classic Tiramisu: For dessert, this creamy coffee-flavored delight rounds off the meal perfectly, ensuring a sweet ending to your Italian feast.

Let the flavors mingle, creating a memorable dining experience that brings joy to every meal shared with loved ones.

How to Store and Freeze Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.

Freezer: If needed, freeze the pappardelle (without garnish) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding reserved pasta water or additional cream to achieve the desired consistency.

Tip: Avoid freezing garnished dishes, as fresh parsley may lose its vibrant color and texture when thawed.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the sausage and fennel mixture up to 3 days in advance; simply cook and caramelize them, then refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The pasta can also be cooked ahead of time and stored separately to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sausage and fennel in a skillet on low heat, stir in the heavy cream and Calabrian chili paste to warm through, and toss with the freshly cooked or reheated pappardelle. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Reserve Pasta Water: Always hold back some pasta water before draining; it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing creaminess.

Watch Cooking Times: Be attentive while browning the sausage and caramelizing fennel to prevent burning; perfect timing brings out delicious flavors.

Adjust Spiciness: Start with less Calabrian chili paste, tasting as you go; it’s easier to add heat than to remove it from your pasta dish!

Finishing Touch: For extra depth of flavor, finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil right before serving.

Sautéing Options: If going vegetarian, sautéed mushrooms can be a delightful substitute for sausage, offering a beautiful earthy flavor in your Calabrian Chili Pappardelle.

Serving Suggestions: Pair with a light salad or crusty bread; it enhances the meal for a more balanced and satisfying experience.

Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to this delightful dish with these easy variations.

Vegetarian: Substitute Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that still satisfies.
Gluten-Free: Swap pappardelle with gluten-free pasta options, using a blend that suits your taste. The creamy sauce will still shine!
Heat Level: Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili paste to control the spice; try a milder pepper sauce if preferred.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan for a rich, dairy-free alternative.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Extra Veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for a colorful boost.
Seafood Twist: Incorporate shrimp or scallops for a delightful seafood variation that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Flavor Boost: A splash of white wine while caramelizing the fennel can add a lovely depth of flavor, enhancing the overall dish.

For a delicious side to complement your meal, consider pairing this pasta with some homemade Blueberry Biscuits Sweet for a sweet ending. These variations allow you to truly make this dish your own!

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my dish?
Absolutely! For the fennel, look for bulbs that are firm with a pleasant, slightly sweet aroma. Choose Italian sausage that feels meaty and has a rich color. If using Calabrian chili paste, make sure it’s fresh and vibrant in color. A good tip is to check the pasta packaging for freshness dates to ensure optimal texture.

How should I store leftovers of the dish?
After cooking, let the creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle cool and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the pasta on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of heavy cream or reserved pasta water for that creamy texture once more!

Can I freeze the creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze it! Just make sure to freeze the dish without any garnish. Transfer the cooled pappardelle to a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator for the night before reheating. When ready, gently reheat it in a skillet, stirring in a little cream or reserved pasta water as needed for the best consistency.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water while you toss the pasta, stirring gently. This will help you achieve that silky sauce that beautifully coats the pappardelle. Remember, a little goes a long way, so add gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

Is this dish safe for those with allergies?
Always check for specific allergies! The creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle contains common allergens such as dairy and gluten. For those with dairy allergies, substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream can work wonderfully. If anyone is gluten-sensitive, you could try gluten-free pasta—just adjust the cooking times as needed.

Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Very! For a delightful vegetarian twist, simply replace the Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute. Just cook the mushrooms until they release their moisture and become golden for that extra depth of flavor—this will keep the essence of creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle rich and enjoyable!