Name: Delicious Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Recipe
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 occasion. This decadent recipe combines wide ribbons of egg pasta with a luscious sauce that features spicy Calabrian chilies and savory Italian sausage. Complemented by the sweet anise notes of sautéed fennel, this creamy dish is perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into making this delightful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

This dish is not only visually stunning but also offers a multitude of flavors and textures. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore this creamy pappardelle recipe:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy Calabrian chili pasta with creamy sauce creates a flavor profile that’s truly unforgettable.
Easy to Make: This easy Calabrian chili pasta recipe can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Comfort Food: The creamy pasta with Calabrian chili sauce is the ultimate comfort food, satisfying and indulgent.
Perfect for Sharing: With a yield of four servings, this dish is great for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Versatile Pairing: Works well with a variety of sides and salads, enhancing your dining experience.
Healthier Choice: Using fresh ingredients aligns with a gluten-free diet, making it a healthier option.

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.

Delicious Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Recipe - Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of Calabrian chilies based on your spice preference.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
For an added twist, consider incorporating spinach or arugula for a fresh touch.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

This dish can be served with a variety of sides:

Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Top with toasted pine nuts or fresh herbs for added texture and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

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

The secret lies in balancing the flavors of the spicy Calabrian chili sauce with the creamy base. Properly sautéing the vegetables and using fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste.

Can I make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pappardelle fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

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

Ensure you don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente. Also, refrain from adding too much cream at once, as it may overpower the dish.

Variations of Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few variations:

Substitute Italian sausage with shrimp or chicken for a different protein.
Add roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor.
Incorporate fresh spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.

Delicious Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Recipe - Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Muffins or Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. If you’re looking for a comforting meal, try our Loaded Chicken Nachos Feast or Mini Pistachio Tartlets Recipe. For a sweet treat, don’t miss our Molten Lava Chocolate Cake Recipe.

For more information on the health benefits of Calabrian chilies, you can visit Healthline.