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As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, I find myself reaching for cozy, comforting meals that warm both body and soul. Enter my creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle with sausage and fennel—a dish that transforms a simple pasta evening into an unforgettable culinary experience.

I first discovered this delightful combination while experimenting with ingredients I had on hand, and let me tell you, the result was a revelation! The rich, velvety sauce, kissed by the warmth of Calabrian chilies and the robust flavor of caramelized sausage, creates a comforting hug in a bowl. Perfect for those chilly nights when all you want is something that feels like home, it’s a dish that comes together in a flash and can rival any restaurant fare.

Join me in cooking up this flavorful masterpiece, and savor how easily it brings the heart of Italy right to your dinner table. don’t forget a crisp salad and crusty bread for that perfect finish!

Why is Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: This dish is the perfect antidote to chilly nights, offering a bowlful of cozy indulgence.
Rich Flavor Profile: The spicy Calabrian chilis beautifully complement the savory sausage, while the creamy sauce adds luxurious depth.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just thirty minutes, it’s an easy, satisfying recipe for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Versatile Ingredient Options: Easily adapt it with ground turkey, or add leafy greens for a nutrient boost.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to be a hit at any table!

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Pappardelle Pasta – Forming the base of the dish, high-quality egg pasta yields the best results.

For the Sauce
• Italian Sausage – Provides savory, rich flavor; choose sweet or spicy varieties based on preference.
• Olive Oil – Essential for browning sausage and sautéing vegetables; can substitute with canola or grapeseed oil.
• Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; replace with additional olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Onion – For sweetness and depth; yellow or sweet onions work best for flavor.
• Fennel – Offers a unique anise flavor; can be omitted if unavailable.
• Garlic – Enhances the sauce with aromatic notes; fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste.
• Tomato Paste – Boosts the richness; substitute with more tomato purée if needed.
• Calabrian Chili Peppers – Supplies heat and distinctive flavor; adjust quantity for desired spice level.
• White Wine – Adds acidity to balance the richness; use dry white wine or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
• Tomato Purée – Forms the sauce’s base; swap with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
• Heavy Cream – Provides creaminess; opt for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.
• Fresh Oregano – Infuses the sauce with herbal notes; dried oregano can be used in smaller amounts.
• Parmesan Cheese – A finishing touch that adds richness; pecorino can be used or omit for dairy-free diets.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning, always adjust to taste.

For Serving
• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce; choose your favorite from the bakery!
• Fresh Salad – Opt for something hearty like a roasted garlic & kale Caesar to elevate the meal.

Dive into this Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel and enjoy every comforting bite!

How to Make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Boil Water: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil for the pasta. This ensures the pappardelle cooks evenly.
Heat Oil: In a 3-quart sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. This step is essential for browning the sausage perfectly, adding depth to your dish.
Brown Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until nicely browned, then set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat, add butter to the pan, and sauté the onion and fennel. Cook them until caramelized, roughly 8 minutes, until they’re golden and fragrant.
Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and stir briefly, then mix in the tomato paste and Calabrian chili paste. Cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld.
Deglaze: Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits. Simmer for 2 minutes to reduce and infuse the sauce.
Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato purée, heavy cream, oregano, and browned sausage back into the pan. Stir everything well and let simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing flavors to marry.
Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook your pappardelle in the boiling water until al dente. Drain it once it’s perfect, and toss it with the creamy sauce.
Melt Cheese: Gradually add the parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and coats the pasta beautifully.
Season & Serve: Taste your sauce and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Plate your dish, garnishing with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

Optional: For a fresher taste, top with chopped parsley before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pappardelle in salted water until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the creamy sauce.

Flavor Boost: For maximum impact, brown the sausage until crispy, which brings out the best flavors in this creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle dish.

Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick after combining with the pasta, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess.

Adjust Spice Levels: Experiment with the amount of Calabrian chili peppers to suit your spice tolerance, ensuring a perfect balance in your dish.

Save Leftovers Wisely: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and gently reheat on the stove, adding a touch of cream or water to maintain creaminess.

Garnish with Care: Elevate your presentation by sprinkling fresh herbs or extra parmesan on top before serving the creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle.

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Variations

Embrace your creativity and make this dish your own with these delightful tweaks and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based milk for a rich, dairy-free alternative.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace Italian sausage with crumbled tempeh or mushrooms to maintain that savory flavor without the meat. Both options lend texture and richness to the sauce.
Spice Lovers: Increase the heat by adding fresh diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes—perfect for those who like an extra kick in their meals!
Greens Galore: Stir in fresh spinach or kale right at the end of cooking for added nutrition and vibrant color. It wilts beautifully, making your dish pop with freshness.
Whole Wheat Upgrade: Use whole wheat pappardelle for a nutty flavor and extra fiber; it’s both healthier and adds a delightful chewyness!
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture and a delicious nutty depth to your creamy sauce.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic lift—these herbs bring a lovely freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
Zesty Lemons: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some lemon zest to brighten up the flavors; it’s a simple trick that elevates this cozy meal to new heights!

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

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful pasta with complementary flavors and textures to create a complete meal.

Crunchy Garlic Bread: The perfect side for sopping up that luxurious sauce, it adds a delightful crunch and aroma to your meal.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies add earthy flavors and color, balancing the dish and enhancing its nutritional content.
Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites add a salty, cheesy note that enhances the creaminess without overpowering the palate.
Zesty Lemon Tart: End your meal with a tangy, sweet dessert; it cleanses the palate beautifully after the savory flavors of the pasta.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully, cutting through the creaminess and complementing the spicy notes of the sauce.
Spicy Italian Sausage Bites: For the adventurous eater, these bites mirror the flavors in the pappardelle while providing a delightful appetizer option.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Fridge: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing to retain its creaminess.

Freezer: If you wish to freeze your creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle, place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce as needed.

Serving Tip: For the best texture, avoid microwaving, as it can cause the cream to separate. Instead, gentle stovetop reheating helps maintain that velvety finish in your dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel are ideal for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal ready in a flash! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance by following the steps up to simmering the sauce (steps 4-7), then refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its rich flavor. The pasta can be cooked and stored separately for up to 24 hours; just toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, then combine with the cooked pappardelle. You’ll find that your dish is just as delectable and comforting as if made fresh!

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel Recipe FAQs

What type of pappardelle pasta should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose high-quality egg pappardelle. The wider, flat shape absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully and creates a delightful texture.

How should I store leftovers of this creamy pappardelle?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the pasta cool completely before sealing it; this prevents condensation from forming and helps retain the rich creaminess.

Can I freeze creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle?
Yes, you can! To freeze, transfer the pasta into an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or water, stirring to maintain the creamy texture.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce seems too thick after adding the pasta, simply add a bit of reserved pasta water—about a tablespoon at a time—until you reach the desired consistency. Stir well to combine, and it should become beautifully creamy again!

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make this creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream. Additionally, choose gluten-free pappardelle if needed. If you’re concerned about spice, reduce the amount of Calabrian chili peppers to suit your tolerance.

How ripe or fresh should my ingredients be?
Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor significantly! Make sure your fennel is firm and fragrant, your garlic is plump and aromatic, and your tomatoes (whether paste or purée) are of good quality. Fresh herbs, like oregano, should be vibrant and green, helping to elevate the dish’s overall taste.