Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel is a luscious dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, the anise-like aroma of fennel, and the distinct heat of Calabrian chili paste. This delectable pasta dish is a symphony of textures and flavors, sure to tantalize your taste buds from the very first bite. The creaminess of the sauce envelops the wide, ribbon-like pappardelle, creating a cozy hug of warmth—perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you simply want to indulge in something comforting yet elevated. It’s a recipe you’ll want to delve into, especially with its step-by-step instructions that make it both approachable and enjoyable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle is not just easy to make; it’s incredibly rewarding as well. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time. It’s family-friendly, appealing to both adults and kids alike, while being spicy enough to satisfy those who enjoy a kick. Whether you’re preparing a delicious weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, this dish can easily become the star of your table. Plus, with only one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
To prepare this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta: Thick and wide, perfect for holding sauce.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (crumbled): Savory and flavorful, it will be the dish’s centerpiece.
- 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced: Delivers a mild licorice flavor that pairs beautifully with the sausage.
- 2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste: Adds a spicy yet fruity kick to the dish.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious and creamy sauce consistency.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Introduces a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Complements the sausage and adds an aromatic depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps in sauteing and brings richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Directions for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
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Cook the Pappardelle: Start by cooking the pappardelle pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve a bit of the cooking water for later. Set aside the drained pasta.
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Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
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Sauté Fennel and Garlic: Add the thinly sliced fennel and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the fennel has softened and the garlic is fragrant.
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Incorporate Calabrian Chili Paste: Stir in the Calabrian chili paste and cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine all ingredients, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine with Pappardelle: Gently toss the drained pappardelle into the skillet, mixing it well with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use a splash of reserved pasta cooking water to achieve your desired consistency.
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Serve Hot: Plate the creamy pappardelle and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy this sumptuous dish while it’s still warm!
Tips & Tricks
To elevate this dish even further, consider adding a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. If you prefer a little more heat, additional Calabrian chili paste can be added to suit your taste. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the overall flavor profile beautifully. Lastly, utilizing leftovers for a delicious pasta bake topped with mozzarella can transform your meal into something new entirely.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. For a beverage pairing, a chilled glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea can complement the meal beautifully. If you enjoy wine, a light Pinot Grigio can enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Nutritional Information
This dish is hearty and indulgent, making it a satisfying option for a fulfilling meal. Each serving of Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle contains approximately 600 calories. It provides a good balance of protein from the sausage and cheese, along with carbohydrates from the pasta. As a rich and creamy dish, consider it an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday meal.
Storing Tips & Variations for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s consistency. If you’re looking to make a lighter version, substitute half the cream with low-fat Greek yogurt or replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative. For a veggie-packed variation, toss in sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrients and flavor.
Conclusion for Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
Don’t wait to dive into the heartwarming flavors of Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. Get started with this recipe today, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful culinary adventure.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of pappardelle?
Absolutely! While pappardelle works wonderfully because of its size and width, you can substitute it with fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even penne.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the pappardelle pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative, and ensure the other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
3. How spicy is this dish with Calabrian chili paste?
Calabrian chili paste has a moderate heat level, but you can adjust it to your liking. Start with a small amount and increase it gradually to reach your desired spice level.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and keep it separate from the sauce until ready to serve, then combine everything just before eating.
5. What can I substitute if I can’t find fennel?
If fennel is unavailable, you can use thinly sliced onion or even celery for a different flavor profile. It won’t replicate the unique taste of fennel but will still provide a nice base for the dish.
Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pappardelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving a bit of the cooking water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add thinly sliced fennel and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until the fennel softens and the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in Calabrian chili paste and cook for an additional minute to meld flavors.
- Pour in heavy cream and add Parmesan cheese, stirring well to combine and allowing the cheese to melt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss the drained pappardelle into the skillet, mixing it well with the sauce. Add reserved pasta cooking water if the sauce is too thick.
- Plate the creamy pappardelle and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
