This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel combines the perfect amount of heat from the Calabrian chili paste with the rich creaminess of the sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The fennel adds a subtle aniseed note that complements the savory sausage beautifully, making every bite a harmonious blend of spice, cream, and freshness. Ideal for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. The wide pappardelle noodles hold the luscious sauce well, ensuring each mouthful is rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s a simple yet elegant meal that can be prepared in under an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners or a leisurely weekend treat.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Calabrian chili paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the sliced fennel and garlic to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the fennel is softened.
- Stir in the Calabrian chili paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pappardelle to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Serve the pasta topped with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 670 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
Introduction
The Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and comforting textures. Originating from the vibrant culinary traditions of Southern Italy, this dish embodies the essence of Italian comfort food while incorporating a modern twist with the spicy kick of Calabrian chili paste. Ideal for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings, this pasta recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and savory depth.
Background
Calabrian chili paste, a staple in Southern Italian cuisine, is known for its vibrant heat and unique flavor profile. Made from sun-dried Calabrian chilies, olive oil, and salt, this paste adds a robust, spicy element to any dish. Pappardelle, a broad and flat pasta, is traditionally paired with hearty sauces, making it an excellent choice for this recipe. The inclusion of Italian sausage and fennel not only enhances the dish’s complexity but also pays homage to classic Italian culinary practices where fennel is often used to complement the rich, savory notes of sausage.
Benefits of the Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy Calabrian chili paste, savory sausage, and aromatic fennel creates a multi-layered flavor experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Creamy Comfort: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese blend together to form a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the pappardelle perfectly, delivering comfort in every bite.
- Nutrient-Rich: Fennel is a highly nutritious vegetable, rich in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced and healthful meal.
- Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe can be easily adapted to suit dietary preferences or available ingredients. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, or use chicken sausage for a leaner protein option.
- Impressive Presentation: The wide ribbons of pappardelle combined with the vibrant sauce and fresh basil garnish create an elegant presentation that is sure to impress your guests.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Authentic Ingredients: Using traditional Italian ingredients like Calabrian chili paste and pappardelle ensures an authentic flavor profile that transports you straight to Italy with every bite.
- Balance of Flavors: The spicy, creamy, and savory elements are perfectly balanced, making this dish a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
- Ease of Preparation: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for both novice cooks and busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavors and elegant presentation make it a hit at dinner parties and family gatherings alike.
Health Benefits of Fennel
Fennel is celebrated for its culinary and medicinal properties. Rich in dietary fiber, fennel aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. It is also an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and potassium, which is essential for heart health. The antioxidants present in fennel help combat inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Protein Options: While Italian sausage is a classic choice, this recipe can be adapted with other proteins such as chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili paste according to your heat tolerance. Start with a smaller amount and add more if desired.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter dish, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
Nutritional Value and Benefits of Ingredients
Beyond its delicious taste, this lasagna offers a blend of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The ground beef in the meat sauce provides protein and iron, supporting muscle health and energy levels. The grated carrot and onion add a subtle sweetness while contributing to the daily intake of vitamins A and C, which boost immunity and promote skin health. The béchamel sauce adds calcium and fat, essential for brain and bone health, while still remaining light enough to let the other flavors shine.
Why It’s the Best Choice for Gatherings
Lasagna is a timeless choice for gatherings because it can be prepared ahead of time, leaving you free to entertain and spend time with guests. Ramsay’s recipe holds up well upon reheating, allowing the flavors to develop even more deeply. Plus, the dish is as satisfying in individual servings as it is in a larger shared platter, making it ideal for both intimate family meals and larger gatherings.
Personal Touches: How to Make It Your Own
One of the wonderful aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can add personal touches like a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for garnish, infuse the béchamel sauce with garlic for extra flavor, or swap in ingredients to cater to dietary needs. For instance, adding layers of fresh spinach or thinly sliced zucchini can increase the vegetable content, while using a high-protein pasta adds more nutrients.
A Dish That’s Meant to Be Shared
Ramsay’s lasagna isn’t just about flavor—it’s about creating memories. Each serving brings warmth, whether it’s the first time a child tastes a layered pasta dish, a group of friends sharing a hearty meal, or a couple enjoying a cozy night in. The versatility, depth, and heartiness of this recipe make it a family favorite that’s also sophisticated enough to serve to guests.
Conclusion
The Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel is a testament to the rich and diverse flavors of Italian cuisine. Its perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and savory notes makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, this recipe is sure to deliver a memorable dining experience. Enjoy this delightful pasta dish with a glass of your favorite wine and savor the taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home.
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Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel combines the perfect amount of heat from the Calabrian chili paste with the rich creaminess of the sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The fennel adds a subtle aniseed note that complements the savory sausage beautifully, making every bite a harmonious blend of spice, cream, and freshness. Ideal for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. The wide pappardelle noodles hold the luscious sauce well, ensuring each mouthful is rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s a simple yet elegant meal that can be prepared in under an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners or a leisurely weekend treat.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Calabrian chili paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the sliced fennel and garlic to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the fennel is softened.
- Stir in the Calabrian chili paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pappardelle to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Serve the pasta topped with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
