Name: Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pappardelle pasta; 8 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (optional)

This creamy Calabrian chili pappardelle is a fiery yet cozy bowl of comfort that brings a touch of Southern Italy to your dinner table. The wide ribbons of pappardelle soak up a silky, spicy cream sauce that clings to every fold, while Italian sausage and fennel round it out with savory depth and subtle sweetness.

The Calabrian chili paste offers a slow-burning heat that’s rich and flavorful, not just spicy. When combined with heavy cream, the result is a bold but balanced sauce that beautifully coats the pasta and sausage. It’s hearty enough for cold nights but vibrant enough to enjoy all year round.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

If you love creamy pastas that come with a bit of kick, this one is for you. The heat is mellowed out by the cream, but it still gives that warm, tingly satisfaction that spice lovers crave. It’s easy to make in under 40 minutes, yet elegant enough for a dinner party. The combination of sweet fennel and spicy sausage adds layers of complexity without needing a long list of ingredients.

What Kind of Pappardelle Should I Use?

Fresh pappardelle is ideal for this recipe because it has that luxurious texture and soaks up sauce like a dream. But if you can’t find fresh, dried pappardelle works well too. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente so it doesn’t fall apart when tossed with the sauce. If you’re up for it, making your own pasta takes this dish to the next level.

Ingredients for the Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel

This dish may taste like it took all day to make, but it actually comes together with just a handful of bold ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building flavor and texture.

Pappardelle pasta
Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
Fennel bulb
Calabrian chili paste
Garlic cloves
Heavy cream
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (optional)

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

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Fennel

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the thinly sliced fennel and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Chili Paste

Lower the heat and add the minced garlic and Calabrian chili paste. Cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. This is where the aroma really starts to bloom.

Step 3: Stir in the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for a few minutes so the flavors meld together. Add salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the pappardelle in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling. Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve hot with extra cheese on top.

Serving and Storing Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

This pasta serves about 4 people generously, making it a fantastic option for a family dinner or a casual night with guests. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread to mop up the sauce or a glass of chilled white wine to contrast the heat.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle?

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Add a protein-packed side with light, tender chicken meatballs for balance.

Classic Caprese Salad

A fresh caprese with tomatoes and mozzarella cools down the spicy creaminess.

Garlic Roasted Broccolini

Roasted greens bring a crunchy, bitter contrast that’s just right.

Toasted Focaccia with Sea Salt

For dipping and swiping every last bit of sauce.

Roasted Zucchini and Squash

A light and buttery side dish that complements without overpowering.

Grilled Asparagus Spears

Charred and lemony asparagus adds a sophisticated touch.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle, you’ll be head over heels for these other comforting pasta dishes:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a tangy, veggie-packed classic.
Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta if you’re after even more bold spice.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for easy cleanup and satisfying flavor.
Creamy Mushroom Ravioli with deep umami richness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it whenever the craving hits.

I’d love to know how yours turned out! Did you go spicy with the sausage or keep it mild? Add fennel fronds on top? Share your version in the comments.

Explore beautifully curated pasta dishes and cozy dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next weeknight winner!

Conclusion

Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle with Sausage & Fennel is the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and invigorating. The combination of rich cream, spicy chili, and sweet anise-like fennel brings complexity to every forkful. With minimal prep and major flavor, it’s destined to become a weeknight staple and a go-to dish to impress guests.