Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
A rich and creamy pasta dish with a spicy kick from Calabrian chili, hearty sausage, and sweet fennel, perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta Delicate yet robust, perfect for holding creamy sauces.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (crumbled) Rich, savory meat that provides depth and heartiness.
- 1 bulb fennel, thinly sliced Sweet and aromatic, adding a unique flavor profile.
- 2 tbsp Calabrian chili paste A spicy, tangy blend that gives your dish its signature kick.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Luxurious and silky, it brings the creaminess that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Nutty and salty, this classic cheese adds richness and umami.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and savory, the foundation of the dish's flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Light yet flavorful, perfect for sautéing.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing each component.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Crumble the Italian sausage into the pan, letting it sizzle and brown for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the thinly sliced fennel to the skillet, followed by the minced garlic, and sauté until the fennel is softened, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in the Calabrian chili paste and let it cook for one minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing everything to create a luscious, creamy sauce.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference.
Combining and Serving
- Add the cooked pappardelle to the sauce, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the silky mixture.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Use high-quality ingredients for richer flavor. Adjust seasonings to taste and avoid overcooking the pasta.