Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle Sausage Fennel AMAZING
Author:eliana
Description
Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle w Sausage Fennel Amazing flavor Spicy Calabrian chili creamy sauce fennel seeds create perfection
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound pappardelle pasta
1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced, fronds reserved
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté the Sausage and Fennel: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Add the sliced fennel and onion and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
Add Garlic and Calabrian Chili: Stir in the garlic and Calabrian chili paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine has reduced slightly.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pappardelle pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency. Stir in the chopped parsley and fennel fronds. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Calabrian chili paste can vary in spiciness. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to your preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, begin with a smaller amount and taste as you go.
Don’t skip reserving that pasta water! It’s starchy and helps to create a silky, emulsified sauce that clings beautifully to the pappardelle.
The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final dish. Opt for good-quality Italian sausage and fresh fennel for the best flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with mushrooms or other vegetables.
Add Some Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
Seafood Twist: Replace the sausage with shrimp or scallops for a seafood-inspired dish.
