Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

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Silky ribbons of pappardelle coated in a luscious cream sauce get a bold, spicy twist from Calabrian chili and a savory punch from Italian sausage. The dish is finished with a delicate fennel note that adds a fragrant freshness to every bite. This pasta is the perfect balance of creamy richness, heat, and herbal brightness, making it an unforgettable dinner centerpiece.

Whether you’re hosting friends or just want to treat yourself to a gourmet-style meal without leaving home, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in one bowl. The fennel gives a unique, slightly sweet contrast to the spice, while the sausage brings that crave-worthy depth. It’s hearty, soul-warming, and surprisingly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

This pasta dish checks all the boxes: it’s creamy without being heavy, spicy without overwhelming your palate, and layered with flavor. The Calabrian chili adds an unmistakable heat that lingers beautifully, while the fennel cuts through the richness with a subtle crunch and aromatic finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for date night.

What Kind of Pappardelle Should I Use?

Pappardelle is a broad, flat pasta that holds up well to hearty sauces. You can use fresh or dried pappardelle for this dish, but fresh pasta will elevate the texture and absorb the creamy sauce even better. If you can find egg-based pappardelle at your local market or make it yourself, go for it—it’s worth the extra step.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Each ingredient plays a role in building the deep, dynamic flavor of this dish. From the spice of the Calabrian chili to the aromatic fennel and creamy sauce, this is a pasta that truly shines when every element is in place.

• Pappardelle Pasta: The wide noodles are perfect for clinging onto the creamy, spicy sauce.
• Italian Sausage: Adds savory, meaty depth and richness to every bite.
• Calabrian Chili Paste: Delivers a bold, smoky heat that makes the dish unforgettable.
• Heavy Cream: Provides the silky texture that balances the spice.
• Fennel Bulb: Sliced thin for a sweet, anise-like flavor that contrasts beautifully with the chili.
• Garlic: Brings warmth and aromatic base notes.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté and deepen flavors.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing the flavors together.
• Fresh Parmesan Cheese: For a salty, nutty finish that melts into the sauce.
• Fresh Dill or Fennel Fronds (Optional): Adds a bright herbal garnish.

How To Make the Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Let it brown well to develop flavor, then transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Fennel & Garlic

In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed. Toss in thinly sliced fennel and sauté until soft and golden. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat and stir in Calabrian chili paste. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Boil the Pappardelle

Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Add the sausage back into the sauce, then toss in the drained pasta. Use reserved pasta water a bit at a time to help the sauce cling. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan and optional fresh dill or fennel fronds. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

This recipe serves about 4 people generously, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering. Serve it hot, straight from the pan to the plate, to enjoy the full creaminess and the fresh aroma of the herbs and spices.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. Microwave or gently heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

What to Serve With Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a must to scoop up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Roasted Broccolini

Lightly charred broccolini adds a subtle bitterness and a crispy texture.

Grilled Zucchini

A smoky, simple side that complements the spice of the Calabrian chili.

Burrata with Tomatoes

Creamy burrata with juicy cherry tomatoes and olive oil is a decadent pairing.

White Wine

A chilled glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio helps cleanse the palate.

Marinated Olives

Perfect as a pre-dinner snack, they add a briny pop of flavor before diving into the main course.

Lemon Sorbet

For dessert, a tart lemon sorbet offers a refreshing finish after a rich pasta dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute with mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative to keep it vegetarian. The flavors will still be robust and satisfying.

Is Calabrian chili paste very spicy?
It has a moderate heat with a smoky, slightly fruity flavor. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add to taste.

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, though pappardelle is ideal, you can use fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even rigatoni. Just make sure it’s a shape that holds onto the sauce well.

How can I make this dish lighter?
Try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of sausage. You could also add more veggies like spinach or zucchini for a fresher feel.

What wine pairs best with this pasta?
A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or even a light red like Chianti pairs wonderfully with the spice and creaminess of the dish.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bold on the chili, or keep it mild? Did you mix in extra veggies?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

You can find more delicious recipes like this on my Pinterest: Life With Livia Recipes

Conclusion

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel is a cozy, flavor-packed dish that brings gourmet comfort right to your table. With its balance of spice, cream, and fresh herbs, it’s guaranteed to become a repeat favorite. Try it once, and you’ll crave it again and again!

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