Name: Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle for Cozy Nights In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Pappardelle (Use this broad, flat pasta to catch all the creamy flavors.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Use extra virgin for the best flavor.); 1 lb Italian Sausage (Can substitute with chicken or turkey sausage.); 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Adds richness, choose unsalted for better control over seasoning.); 1 medium Onion (Can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.); 1 cup Fennel (Can replace with more onion or leeks if unavailable.); 3 cloves Garlic (No substitutions recommended for authentic taste.); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (Can substitute with crushed tomatoes for a different texture.); 1 tbsp Calabrian Chili Peppers (Adjust based on your spice tolerance.); 0.5 cup White Wine (For non-alcoholic, use extra chicken broth or a splash of vinegar.); 1 cup Tomato Purée (Can use crushed tomatoes if preferred.); 0.5 cup Heavy Cream (Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.); 1 tbsp Fresh Oregano (Can substitute with dried oregano (use less as it's more concentrated).); 0.5 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (Adjust according to taste.); 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (Can use Pecorino Romano as an alternative.)

As I stirred the bubbling sauce, a delightful scent wrapped around my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a rustic Italian trattoria. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage and Fennel—a dish that captures the heart of comfort food. This pasta is a perfect marriage of rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it an essential option for those cozy nights in. What’s more, its quick prep time means you can indulge in a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen. So, if you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure that warms the soul and pleases the palate, let’s dive into the steps for creating this spicy, creamy delight! Have you ever tried mixing heat and comfort in one dish?

Have you tasted creamy, spicy comfort?

Comforting Flavors: With each bite, the balanced heat of Calabrian chili peppers mingles perfectly with the creamy sauce, offering a delightful contrast that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Quick and Easy: This recipe simplifies gourmet cooking; in just 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal.

Versatile Protein: Feel free to swap out Italian sausage for chicken or even shrimp, making it adaptable to your tastes or dietary needs.

Perfect for Sharing: This dish is ideal for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners, ensuring you impress your friends and family alike. Pair it with a light Corn Cucumber Salad for a refreshing side!

Rich Texture: The silky smooth sauce coats each strand of pappardelle beautifully, creating a luxurious culinary experience right at home.

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Pappardelle – Use this broad, flat pasta to catch all the creamy flavors in the sauce for a delightful texture.

For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Cooking fat that provides flavor and moisture; use extra virgin for the best flavor.
• Italian Sausage – Protein base that adds richness and seasoning; can substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Butter – Adds richness and aids in caramelizing vegetables; choose unsalted for better control over seasoning.
• Onion – Base flavor that brings sweetness; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
• Fennel – Adds an aromatic sweetness; can replace with more onion or leeks if unavailable.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; no substitutions recommended for authentic taste.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor; can substitute with crushed tomatoes for a different texture.
• Calabrian Chili Peppers – Key flavor component that adds spice; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• White Wine – Adds acidity and depth; for non-alcoholic, use extra chicken broth or a splash of vinegar.
• Tomato Purée – Base of the sauce; can use crushed tomatoes if preferred.
• Heavy Cream – Creates creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Fresh Oregano – Herb for freshness; can substitute with dried oregano (use less as it’s more concentrated).
• Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – For seasoning; adjust according to taste.
• Parmesan Cheese – Finishing touch for added flavor; can use Pecorino Romano as an alternative.

With these Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle ingredients, you’re set for a cozy, indulgent mealtime experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Step 1: Boil the Pasta Water
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. This will ensure your pappardelle cooks evenly. Once the water is boiling, you can prepare the rest of your ingredients while it heats—this multitasking will help save time!

Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a 3-quart sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Make sure the sausage is fully browned for the richest flavor, then set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same pan. Once melted, toss in one diced onion and one cup of sliced fennel. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the vegetables are caramelized and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step builds a flavorful base for your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of Calabrian chili paste. Stir continuously for about a minute, allowing the spices and flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deep, aromatic sauce.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in ½ cup of white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. This deglazing step adds depth to your sauce, enhancing the richness of your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle while the wine reduces slightly.

Step 6: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Next, add 1 cup of tomato purée and ½ cup of heavy cream to the pan, stirring to incorporate. Then, return the browned sausage to the pan and add 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5 minutes, letting everything meld together into a creamy, flavorful mixture.

Step 7: Cook the Pappardelle
When the water is boiling, drop in the pappardelle and cook until al dente, about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. Once cooked, reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later, then drain the pappardelle.

Step 8: Toss Everything Together
Add the drained pappardelle directly into the sauce, gently tossing to coat every strand in that indulgent creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency—this will ensure that every bite of your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle is rich and satisfying.

Step 9: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning
Finally, stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt, if needed. Your delicious dish is ready to serve warm, showcasing that perfect blend of creamy and spicy flavors.

Expert Tips for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

• Brown the Sausage: Ensure the sausage is well-browned for enhanced flavor; this caramelization adds depth to your sauce.

• Pasta Pot Size: Use a large pot for boiling pasta to prevent clumping. A spacious environment allows the pappardelle to move freely.

• Pasta Water Reserve: Always reserve pasta water before draining; it helps achieve the desired creamy consistency in your Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle.

• Serve Fresh: For optimal creaminess and flavor, serve your dish immediately after mixing the pasta with the sauce.

• Adjust Spice: Start with smaller quantities of Calabrian chili and gradually increase to suit your spice tolerance, ensuring everyone enjoys your meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage and Fennel are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance—simply sauté the vegetables, add the sausage, and stir in the remaining ingredients as normal. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain quality. You can also cook the pappardelle up to 24 hours beforehand; be sure to toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce on the stovetop while cooking the fresh pasta. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality results without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Elevate your cozy dinner with these delightful pairings that will complement the rich and spicy flavors beautifully.

Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad dressed in a light vinaigrette balances the creamy richness, adding a vibrant crunch to your meal. Try mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and a tangy lemon dressing for a fresh touch.
Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is the perfect vessel for sopping up that creamy sauce, enhancing your dining experience with a crispy, golden side.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or zucchini add a savory depth to your plate, mingling their earthy flavors with the spice of the pappardelle.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chianti complements the dish well, bringing out the acidity in the sauce, while enhancing the overall richness.
Creamy Polenta: This velvety dish acts as a perfect base and adds a comforting element to your meal; its creaminess mirrors the texture of the pappardelle.
Tiramisu: End your dinner on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert. Its coffee-flavored layers provide a delightful contrast to the spicy, creamy pasta.

Storage Tips for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Fridge: Store leftover creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to store it longer, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to regain that creamy texture.

Enjoy Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, this dish is best enjoyed fresh, but these storage tips help you savor the deliciousness later!

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Variations

Feel free to make this recipe uniquely yours, exploring all the delightful ways to enhance its flavors and textures!

Seafood Option: Swap the sausage for shrimp or scallops to make a delicious seafood version that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Veggie Delight: Stir in seasonal veggies like spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a wholesome twist, adding nutritious goodness to your meal.
Texture Twist: Try adding toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for an unexpected, crunchy finish that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.
Spicy Heat: For those who love a kick, increase the amount of Calabrian chili or add a dash of red pepper flakes for extra spice.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream rather than heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free version that’s still rich and satisfying.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of oregano to bring a new layer of flavor to this comforting dish.
Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors and cut through the richness of the cream.

As you customize your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle, you might also love to serve it alongside a light Corn Cucumber Salad for a fresh contrast or indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta as an alternative meal idea. Enjoy the journey of making it your own!

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Recipe FAQs

What type of olive oil should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle. It adds a lovely richness that enhances the overall dish, making every bite a tantalizing experience!

Can I substitute the Italian sausage, and what alternatives work best?
Absolutely! You can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, shrimp can also be a delightful substitute, providing a fresh twist to this comfort food classic.

How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Store any leftover creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing; this helps maintain its delightful flavors and creamy texture.

Can I freeze creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze it! First, allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to regain that luscious creaminess.

What if my sauce becomes too thick when reheating?
If your sauce thickens during reheating, no worries! Gradually add a bit of reserved pasta water or even some extra cream while stirring to reach your desired consistency. This will help restore the creamy texture and bring your dish back to life!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! For allergies, please note that this recipe contains dairy and gluten. You can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. If you’re serving others, consider checking for any allergic reactions to ingredients like sausage or cheese, and adjust accordingly for your loved ones’ safety.