Name: Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle: 7 Steps to Indulge
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

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Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle is a delightful culinary experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. This luscious dish combines the rich, creamy texture of a tomato-cream sauce with the spicy kick from Calabrian chilies, creating an incredible flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. The wide ribbons of egg pappardelle perfectly soak up this spicy Calabrian chili sauce, making every bite a celebration of Italian flavors. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy yet indulgent recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

This creamy pappardelle dish offers several benefits that make it a must-try. First, it features the unique flavor of Calabrian chilies, which add a delightful heat to the creamy sauce. Second, the inclusion of savory Italian sausage brings depth and richness. Third, it’s a one-pan recipe, making cleanup a breeze. Fourth, with only 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Fifth, it’s gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs. Lastly, the comforting flavors make it a family favorite, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds!

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.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust the level of Calabrian chili to your preferred spice level.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
For a twist, try adding cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Ensure your pappardelle is cooked al dente for the best texture.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. For a true Italian experience, serve it alongside a glass of white wine. Alternatively, consider adding some sautéed vegetables for added nutrition and color.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

To store, place the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to maintain the sauce’s consistency. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

What is Calabrian chili?

Calabrian chili is a type of pepper native to Italy’s Calabria region, known for its spicy, fruity flavor. It’s perfect for adding heat to dishes such as this creamy pasta with Calabrian chili. Learn more about Calabrian chilies.

Can I make Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle ahead of time?

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

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

To avoid mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the pappardelle and always taste the sauce before serving to adjust the seasoning and spice level.

Variations of Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle You Can Try

Consider substituting the sausage with shrimp for a lighter dish or using gluten-free pappardelle for a gluten-free option. You can also experiment with different proteins, such as chicken or mushrooms, to create your homemade creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle twist!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage or Creamy Potato Soup. You can also explore last recipes for more inspiration!