Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Name: Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pappardelle pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy); 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

By Lisa

September 27, 2025

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There’s something magical about a creamy bowl of pappardelle that just makes your soul do a little dance. Imagine twirling those luscious, wide noodles around your fork, coating them in a vibrant sauce that’s both spicy and rich. Our Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel is like an Italian hug – warm, comforting, and just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.

Picture this: you’re gathering with friends for a cozy dinner, the aroma of garlic and fennel wafting through the air, stirring up memories of family meals past. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. It’s time to dig into flavors that will make your taste buds sing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle not only delivers incredible flavor but is also simple to prepare
The vibrant colors and aromas make it a feast for the eyes and the palate
Perfect for an intimate weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends, it offers versatility that adapts to any occasion
Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste!

Ingredients for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pappardelle Pasta: These wide noodles are key for holding onto that creamy sauce; fresh is best if you can find it.
Italian Sausage: Use your favorite type—sweet or spicy—for added flavor; just remove the casings before cooking.
Fennel Bulb: Its licorice-like flavor adds depth; slice thinly for even cooking.
Calabrian Chili Paste: This spicy Italian paste packs a flavorful punch; adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
Heavy Cream: To achieve that luscious creaminess; half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for best flavor; sprinkle generously over each serving!
Garlic: The more, the merrier; minced fresh garlic infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and taste.

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding richness to your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

How to Make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pappardelle and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add crumbled Italian sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

In the same skillet, add sliced fennel and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until fennel is tender and fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Stir in Calabrian chili paste into the fennel mixture along with chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, allowing flavors to combine beautifully for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked sausage to the skillet along with drained pappardelle. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water as necessary for desired creaminess.

Step 6: Serve

Plate your indulgent pasta masterpiece and generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before diving in!

Now grab a fork (you may need two), dig into this delicious Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel, and enjoy every single bite!

You Must Know

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
Its rich flavors and textures will impress everyone at your table
This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the sausage in a large skillet to develop rich flavors. While that sizzles, cook the pappardelle until al dente. Then, whip up your creamy sauce with fennel and Calabrian chili for an unforgettable finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sausage for ground turkey or even a meat substitute for a lighter dish. Add some fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor. It’s all about personalizing your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency and heat gently on the stovetop.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle shine, remember to use high-quality ingredients; they make a world of difference!
Don’t rush when simmering the sauce—allow those flavors to meld and deepen
Lastly, always taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly

Sometimes cooking adventures lead to hilarious outcomes. I once made this dish for friends and misread “Calabrian” as “Caribbean.” Picture spicy tropical vibes instead of creamy pasta! It was memorable and deliciously chaotic!

FAQs:

What is Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel?

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel is a rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines wide, flat pappardelle noodles with a creamy sauce infused with spicy Calabrian chilies. The addition of sausage adds protein and depth, while fennel contributes a subtle sweetness and anise flavor. This dish is perfect for those looking to elevate their pasta game with a blend of heat and creaminess.

How can I make the sauce for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel?

To prepare the sauce, start by browning your choice of sausage in a pan. Once cooked, mix in minced garlic and crushed Calabrian chilies to release their flavors. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring until you achieve a smooth consistency. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese for richness, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce beautifully coats the pappardelle for an unforgettable meal.

What can I serve with Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle?

To complement your Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel, consider serving a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread is also an excellent choice for soaking up any remaining sauce. For wine pairing, opt for a medium-bodied red, such as Chianti or Barbera, which balances the dish’s spice and creaminess perfectly.

Can I make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily adapt Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel to a vegetarian version by substituting the sausage with plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for texture. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth if your recipe calls for it. Maintain the same creamy sauce base to ensure you still enjoy that delicious flavor profile without compromising on taste.

Conclusion for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel:

In conclusion, Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel offers a delightful balance of spice and richness. By combining pappardelle pasta with a creamy, chili-infused sauce, this dish stands out as comfort food at its finest. Whether you choose to serve it alongside a salad or garlic bread, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy making this rich Italian classic in your home kitchen!

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