Name: Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle: 5 Reasons to Savor It
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb raw mild Italian pork sausage; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 small fennel bulbs, diced; 1 lb DeLallo Egg Pappardelle; 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped; ¼ cup tomato paste; 2 tbsp DeLallo Calabrian Chili Peppers; ½ cup white wine; 1 (24 oz) jar tomato purée; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano; ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for topping; freshly cracked black pepper, as needed

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle is a dish that elevates any dinner experience. The combination of wide ribbons of egg pasta enveloped in a luscious, spicy sauce infused with Calabrian chilies and the anise flavor of sautéed fennel creates a taste sensation you won’t forget. This delightful meal is not only rich in flavor but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

This creamy pappardelle recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it one of the best creamy pappardelle dishes to enjoy. Here are a few reasons why:

Deliciously creamy and spicy, it satisfies both cravings.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Features Calabrian chili pasta for that extra kick.
Versatile enough to adapt for vegetarian or gluten-free diets.
Pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.
Perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.

With a total time of just 45 minutes, this dish not only tastes great but is also accessible for everyone to make!

Ingredients for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Gather these items:

1 lb raw mild Italian pork sausage
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion, diced
2 small fennel bulbs, diced
1 lb DeLallo Egg Pappardelle
6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
¼ cup tomato paste
2 tbsp DeLallo Calabrian Chili Peppers
½ cup white wine
1 (24 oz) jar tomato purée
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
freshly cracked black pepper, as needed

How to Make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Remove the sausage from casings and cook until deeply browned, about 8-10 minutes, breaking it into bite-sized pieces with a wooden spoon.
Step 2: Add the butter to the pan along with diced onion and fennel. Sauté until the vegetables become tender and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil for the pappardelle. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the chopped garlic into the sausage mixture and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add tomato paste and Calabrian chilies, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the paste darkens slightly and sticks to the pan bottom.
Step 5: Deglaze with white wine, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce by half, then pour in the tomato purée and bring to a simmer.
Step 6: Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream and fresh oregano. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Add the cooked pappardelle, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the sauce along with ½ cup grated parmesan, tossing gently to coat every strand.
Step 8: Serve immediately on warmed plates, topped with additional parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle: 5 Reasons to Savor It - Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Keep these in mind:

Using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavors significantly.
Don’t skip the step of deglazing the pan; it adds depth to the sauce.
Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili based on your spice tolerance.
For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

This dish can shine on its own, but here are some pairing suggestions:

Serve with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Pair with garlic bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce.
A glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors—using the right amount of Calabrian chili ensures a spicy kick without overpowering the creamy base. Make sure to taste as you go!

Can I make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve. This is a great way to save time while still enjoying a homemade meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle?

Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente to hold up well in the sauce. Also, be mindful of the heat when adding cream to prevent it from curdling.

Variations of Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle You Can Try

There are many delicious twists you can add to this dish:

For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms.
Add spinach or kale for a nutritious boost.
Try using a different pasta shape, such as fettuccine, for variety.
Incorporate lemon zest for a bright finish to the creamy sauce.

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle: 5 Reasons to Savor It - Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle - additional detail

For more tips on cooking pasta, check out this guide. If you’re interested in exploring more about Calabrian chilies, visit this article. You can also learn about the health benefits of fennel by reading this resource.