Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a pasta dish that combines rich creaminess with a bright, spicy kick and savory depth, you’re in for a treat with the Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe. This luscious plate of wide ribbons of pappardelle pasta swimming in a decadent sauce packed with Italian sausage, fragrant fennel, and fiery Calabrian chili delivers an unforgettable flavor explosion that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe guarantees a spectacular, satisfying meal every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating the magic of this dish. Each component plays a unique role, from building layers of flavor to giving the sauce its creamy texture and just-right heat.

• 12 ounces pappardelle pasta: Its wide, flat shape soaks up the sauce perfectly for a luscious bite every time.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to brown the sausage and soften the fennel, adding richness without overpowering.
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed: Brings hearty, spiced meatiness that’s the backbone of the dish.
• 1 medium fennel bulb, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and a refreshing anise aroma that balances the heat.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with inviting warmth and depth.
• 1 teaspoon Calabrian chili paste: The star of the show for that signature spicy kick – adjust to taste for your preferred heat.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich and velvety base that makes this pasta especially indulgent.
• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese: A sharp, salty punch that brightens and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, for garnish: Offers a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of green color.

How to Make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pappardelle to Al Dente Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt is crucial, as it seasons the pasta internally while it cooks. Add the pappardelle and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning just tender but still with a slight bite. Before draining, reserve one cup of the pasta water – this starchy liquid is your secret weapon to adjust and perfect the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage for Deep Flavor

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown beautifully for about 5 to 7 minutes, rendering out its flavorful fat and creating those irresistible crispy bits that add texture to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté Fennel and Garlic Until Tender and Aromatic

Next, add the diced fennel and minced garlic to the skillet with your browned sausage. Cook them together for around 4 minutes until the fennel softens and releases its sweet, anise goodness, mingling with the warm garlic fragrance. This step layers in brightness and complexity that balances the richness to come.

Step 4: Stir in the Calabrian Chili Paste

Now, it’s time for the exciting punch of flavor — stir in the Calabrian chili paste. This ingredient introduces a smoky, spicy heat that elevates every bite. Feel free to add more or less depending on how fiery you want your pasta. Mix well so the chilies evenly distribute through the skillet.

Step 5: Pour in Heavy Cream and Let it Simmer

Reduce the heat slightly, then slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Allow the sauce to gently bubble for 2 to 3 minutes. This creates that velvety, luscious texture that defines the “creamy” in this Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe, coating every ingredient with richness.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pappardelle directly to the skillet. Toss gently to fully coat the pasta ribbons, making sure every strand is saturated with the spicy, creamy mixture. This step is where everything comes together into a cohesive and irresistible dish.

Step 7: Melt in Pecorino Romano and Adjust Sauce Consistency

Gradually sprinkle in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese while stirring. The cheese adds sharp, savory notes and naturally thickens the sauce. If it seems too thick, slowly stir in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired silky consistency.

Step 8: Season to Taste

Finally, taste your creation and season with salt and freshly ground pepper as needed. This final seasoning balances all the flavors and brings the dish into perfect harmony.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, spicy pasta at its absolute best.

How to Serve Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the dish further, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add vibrancy and freshness. If you want an extra touch, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add beautiful visual appeal and an additional flavor layer.

Side Dishes

This pasta stands proudly as a main course but pairs wonderfully with lightly dressed arugula salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Crusty Italian bread or garlic focaccia is perfect for mopping up any irresistible leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish in warmed, shallow pasta bowls to showcase the wide pappardelle strands coated in that stunning creamy chili sauce. For a dinner party, individual portions garnished with a sprig of fresh herbs or a parmesan crisp add that touch of elegance and flair that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors may intensify overnight, so give it a gentle stir before reheating.

Freezing

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing is possible but may affect the sauce’s texture due to the cream. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container, leave some headspace, and consume within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and restore that creamy texture. Avoid high heat to prevent the cream from breaking or curdling.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pappardelle is ideal because of its broad surface, you can substitute with fettuccine, rigatoni, or even penne. Just keep in mind that the sauce clings best to wider noodles.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, simply swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms like cremini or portobello to maintain that meaty flavor and texture, making the dish vegetarian-friendly.

How spicy is the Calabrian chili paste?

Calabrian chili paste offers moderate heat with smoky, slightly fruity notes. It’s not overwhelmingly spicy, but you can always adjust the amount used to suit your heat tolerance.

Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?

You can use half-and-half or a full-fat coconut milk alternative, but be aware that the sauce may lose some of its velvety richness. Heavy cream provides the signature luxurious texture.

What’s the secret to making the sauce so creamy and smooth?

The combination of heavy cream, Pecorino Romano cheese, and reserved pasta water creates an emulsion that coats the pasta beautifully. Stirring gently and adjusting the sauce with pasta water is key to achieving that perfect silky finish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want something truly special yet straightforward. Its rich, spicy, and aromatic qualities bring pure comfort with a gourmet twist that’s sure to delight anyone lucky enough to share the table. I wholeheartedly encourage you to make this recipe your own and watch it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too.

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