Name: Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces Pappardelle Pasta (or any wide pasta like fettuccine); 1 pound Italian Sausage (swap for turkey sausage for a lighter option); 1 medium Fennel (or substitute with leeks or onions); 3 cloves Garlic (fresh preferred); 2 tablespoons Calabrian Chili Paste (adjust to taste); 1 cup Heavy Cream (or use half-and-half or Greek yogurt); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (or substitute with pecorino or nutritional yeast); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (can substitute with butter); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1/4 cup Fresh Basil or Parsley (for garnish)

As I stirred the pot, a wave of luscious aroma enveloped the kitchen, awakening my senses. The star today? My Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel—the perfect symphony of creamy and spicy, making it a true comfort dish that never disappoints. This recipe is a lifesaver for those hectic weeknights when you crave something festive yet delightfully simple. Not only does it come together in a snap, but it’s also versatile enough to adjust the heat level to suit your taste. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pappardelle, balanced beautifully by the savory notes of Italian sausage and the subtle sweetness of fennel. Intrigued? Let’s dive into this delightful dish that transforms ordinary evenings into special culinary moments.

Why is this pasta dish unforgettable?

Creamy richness permeates this dish, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful experience. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring you don’t sacrifice flavor for speed. Versatile in spice levels, you can easily customize it to your taste. Savory sausage paired with sweet fennel creates a balanced flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for seconds! If you love pasta that feels like a hug in a bowl, you’re going to adore this recipe. Consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that pleases every palate.

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Ingredients

For the Pasta

Pappardelle Pasta – The base of this dish, providing hearty structure; you can use any wide pasta like fettuccine if pappardelle is unavailable.

For the Protein

Italian Sausage – Adds savory depth; swap for turkey sausage for a lighter option if preferred.

For the Vegetables

Fennel – Contributes a sweet, anise-like flavor that beautifully complements the sausage; substitute with leeks or onions if needed.
Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.

For the Sauce

Calabrian Chili Paste – Offers a spicy kick and depth to your creamy sauce; adjust the amount to taste or replace with red pepper flakes for less heat.
Heavy Cream – Forms the luscious creaminess of the sauce; consider using half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami and creaminess; substitute with pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; feel free to substitute with butter for a different flavor.

For Seasoning & Garnish

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to suit your taste preferences.
Fresh Basil or Parsley – For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color to the dish.

This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel perfectly balances richness and flavor, making it a standout choice for your next meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the pappardelle pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until it reaches al dente tenderness. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about one cup of the starchy pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Sauté for 6-8 minutes or until the sausage is golden brown and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, keeping it warm.

Step 3: Cook the Fennel
With the skillet still over medium heat, add the sliced fennel to the remaining oil and sausage drippings. Sauté the fennel for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add Chili Paste
Stir in the Calabrian chili paste to the fennel and garlic mixture, cooking for about one minute to immerse the flavors. This will create a spicy base for the sauce. As the chili paste sizzles, enjoy the aromatic blend that fills your kitchen, signaling it’s time to move on to the next step.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine with the chili and fennel mixture. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into a creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creamy consistency.

Step 6: Combine Everything
Reintroduce the cooked sausage into the creamy sauce, mixing until well-coated. Next, add the drained pappardelle pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently for a minute or two, ensuring each strand of pasta is beautifully enveloped in the creamy Calabrian chili sauce.

Step 7: Season
Taste the creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel and season with salt and freshly cracked pepper as needed. This final step is essential to elevate the flavors, allowing the creaminess and spice to shine through. Adjust seasoning to find that perfect balance that pleases your palate.

Step 8: Plate
To serve, plate the creamy pappardelle, garnishing each serving with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy immediately while the dish is hot and inviting, making sure to savor the lively flavors that come together in this comforting pasta experience.

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this dish and make it your own masterpiece. The possibilities are as delightful as the flavors!

Vegetable Boost: Add baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition. This will brighten your dish while adding some lovely flavor contrasts.
Different Pasta Shapes: Try tagliatelle or rigatoni instead of pappardelle. Each shape brings its own unique texture, making the dish a new experience each time.
Pesto Twist: Swap Calabrian chili paste for pesto for an exciting flavor change. The herbaceousness of pesto will lend a fresh, vibrant touch that’s equally delicious.
Spicy Switch: Increase your spice level by adding fresh diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Just a dash can elevate the heat to new heights!
Dairy-Free Option: Use cashew cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. This variation keeps the creamy elements while accommodating dairy-free diets.
Meat Swap: Opt for turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner protein. Both options maintain savory flavors and enhance the dish while lightening it up.
Umami Richness: Incorporate mushrooms for an earthy, savory kick as they absorb the sauce beautifully, creating an extra layer of deliciousness.

For more meal inspirations, explore our delightful Baked Feta Pasta or enjoy the flavors of Grilled Steak Bowl with Creamy Sauce Grilled Zucchini. The options are endless, and your culinary journey awaits!

What to Serve with Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Creating a delightful meal is about balancing flavors and textures, enhancing every bite with something special.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, crunchy perfection of garlic bread makes for a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce, inviting you to savor every mouthful.
Simple Garden Salad: A mix of crisp greens with a zesty dressing adds freshness, cutting through the richness of the pasta and providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like zucchini and bell peppers, bring a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy notes of the dish.
Crispy Brussel Sprouts: Perfectly roasted sprouts add a crunchy texture, balancing the softness of the pappardelle while enhancing the flavor profile with their natural nuttiness.
Lemon Sorbet: As a light dessert, lemon sorbet offers a refreshing finish to your meal, cleansing the palate after the hearty, creamy indulgence.
Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio highlights the dish’s flavors and provides a delightful complement to the creamy and spicy notes.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: A classic dessert with moist cake and sweet fruit brings a nostalgic touch, perfect for rounding off an Italian dinner experience.
Spicy Olive Tapenade: Served on crostini, this dip can excite your taste buds before the main event, hinting at the flavors to come in the pasta.

Expert Tips for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Perfect Pasta: Ensure you cook the pappardelle to al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that won’t hold up in the creamy sauce.
Customize Spice: Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili paste based on your heat preference. Start with a little for subtle heat and increase gradually for a spicier kick.
Creamy Sauce: For the best flavor, use fresh, grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as well, affecting the sauce’s creaminess.
Sauté Right: Sauté your sausage until golden brown for depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; the caramelization adds richness to your Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle.
Flavor Variations: Consider adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flair and nutrition. They integrate well into the creamy sauce.
Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of cream to retain the sauce’s lovely consistency.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and texture, try to cool the pasta to room temperature before refrigerating.

Freezer: You can freeze this Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle for up to 2 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and consider portioning out servings for quick meals later.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Thawing: For frozen pasta, transfer to the fridge the night before to thaw slowly. This method helps retain the sauce’s creamy texture when reheating.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the sausage and fennel up to 3 days ahead by cooking them and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can measure out and mix the heavy cream, Calabrian chili paste, and grated Parmesan in advance. When you’re ready to enjoy this creamy dish, simply cook the pasta fresh and combine everything in the skillet, heating through and adjusting with reserved pasta water as needed. This way, you maintain the quality of the sauce and enjoy a truly delicious meal with minimal effort—all while saving precious time on busy weeknights!

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right fennel?
Absolutely! When selecting fennel, look for bulbs that are firm and compact, with crisp, feathery fronds attached. Avoid any that’s soft or slimy, and check for dark spots, as these can indicate spoilage. Smaller bulbs tend to be sweeter, while larger ones may have a stronger anise flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?
You can store your Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve its creamy texture, it’s best to cool the pasta to room temperature before placing it in the fridge.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes! You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the pappardelle to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ideally portioned into single servings. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stove, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore its creaminess.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If your sauce seems too thick, simply add a little of the reserved pasta water or some heavy cream while gently stirring over low heat. This will help loosen it up and bring back that perfect creamy consistency, ensuring every bite is luscious.

Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
If you have dietary considerations, you can easily alter this recipe. Swap the sausage for a vegetarian option like mushrooms or lentils and use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Additionally, if you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can stand in for Parmesan, delivering a cheesy flavor without the milk. Always double-check your ingredients for any allergens!