Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Introduction

Calabrian Chili Pappardelle is a bold and flavorful pasta dish that combines the heat of Calabrian chilis with the rich, savory notes of a perfectly balanced tomato sauce. The wide, ribbon-like pappardelle noodles are coated in a silky sauce that’s both spicy and comforting, making this dish an ideal choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

I first made this dish when I was in the mood for something with a bit more of a kick, and it quickly became a favorite. The Calabrian chilis add just the right amount of heat without overpowering the other flavors, and the pappardelle noodles provide the perfect base to soak up the rich, spicy sauce. A sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh basil can elevate the dish even further, but it’s just as delicious on its own.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta is a stunning yet simple option that’s sure to impress. The vibrant red sauce and bold flavors make it an unforgettable meal that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Spicy food lovers
• Pasta enthusiasts
• Dinner parties
• Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Here’s why Calabrian Chili Pappardelle will become your go-to pasta dish:

• Rich, Spicy Flavor: Calabrian chilis bring a deep, smoky heat that transforms a simple tomato sauce into something extraordinary.
• Silky, Coated Noodles: Pappardelle’s wide shape is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
• Easy to Make: This dish comes together quickly with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer Calabrian chilis to suit your preferences.
• Restaurant-Quality Dish: Impress guests with a pasta dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to prepare.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 60g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Calabrian Chili Pappardelle:

• 12 oz pappardelle pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste (or chopped Calabrian chilis)
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for a silky sauce finish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Calabrian Chilis: Known for their smoky, fruity heat, these Italian chilis are the star of the dish. You can use them in paste form or chop whole preserved chilis.
• Pappardelle Pasta: The wide, ribbon-like shape of pappardelle is perfect for holding onto the bold sauce.
• Olive Oil and Garlic: These simple ingredients form the aromatic base of the sauce, enhancing its overall depth.
• Crushed Tomatoes: A high-quality can of crushed tomatoes provides the foundation for the sauce, offering sweetness and acidity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Calabrian Chili Pappardelle:

Prepare the Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the sliced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn it).
4. Add the Calabrian Chilis: Stir in the Calabrian chili paste (or chopped chilis) and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to bloom.
5. Deglaze with Wine (Optional): Pour in the white wine and simmer for 1-2 minutes until reduced by half.
6. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. Let the sauce cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the butter for a glossy texture and adjust the seasoning to taste.

Combine and Serve:

8. Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pappardelle to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce seems too thick.
9. Add Cheese: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until the cheese is melted and the sauce clings to the pasta.
10. Serve: Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

How to Serve Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Calabrian Chili Pappardelle is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• With Crusty Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• As a Main Course: Serve as a standalone meal with a side salad for a complete dinner.
• For a Special Occasion: Pair with a glass of red wine or an Italian white for a sophisticated dinner.

Additional Tips for Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Here are some tips to ensure your Calabrian Chili Pappardelle turns out perfectly:

• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili paste to make the dish spicier or milder.
• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality olive oil, fresh garlic, and good Parmesan cheese make a big difference in flavor.
• Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for a creamier sauce.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, top with grilled shrimp, chicken, or sausage.

Recipe Variations for Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Here are 10 variations you can try for Calabrian Chili Pappardelle:

1. Creamy Calabrian Chili Pappardelle: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream for a luxurious, creamy sauce.
2. Seafood Pappardelle: Add sautéed shrimp, scallops, or crab to the dish for a seafood twist.
3. Vegetarian Option: Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for a veggie-packed version.
4. Calabrian Chili Carbonara: Combine the chili sauce with eggs and cheese for a spicy carbonara variation.
5. Cheesy Baked Pappardelle: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
6. Lemon-Chili Pappardelle: Add a splash of lemon juice and zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
7. Pappardelle with Sausage: Add crumbled Italian sausage to the sauce for extra richness.
8. Mushroom Pappardelle: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, umami-packed dish.
9. Herb-Infused Pappardelle: Add fresh basil or oregano to enhance the Italian flavors.
10. Calabrian Chili Pesto: Combine the chili paste with basil, olive oil, and Parmesan for a unique pesto sauce.

Freezing and Storage for Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

• Freezing: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving with fresh pasta.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Special Equipment for Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Calabrian Chili Pappardelle easier:

• Large Skillet: A wide skillet is ideal for cooking the sauce and tossing the pasta.
• Pasta Pot: Use a large pot to cook the pappardelle evenly.
• Microplane: Grate Parmesan cheese finely for easy melting.
• Tongs: Perfect for tossing the pasta with the sauce.
• Ladle: Use a ladle to scoop out reserved pasta water.
• Mortar and Pestle – For crushing the Calabrian chilies and garlic for the sauce.
• Chef’s Knife – For chopping garlic, herbs, and any other ingredients for the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate measurements of ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, and seasoning.
• Ladle – For adding sauce to the pasta without making a mess.

Frequently Asked Questions for Calabrian Chili Pappardelle

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, tagliatelle, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well if pappardelle isn’t available.
2. Is this dish very spicy?
   It depends on the amount of Calabrian chili used. You can adjust it to suit your spice tolerance.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve with freshly cooked pasta.
4. What can I substitute for Calabrian chili paste?
   You can use red chili flakes, harissa, or sambal oelek for a similar heat and flavor.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Calabrian Chili Pappardelle is a simple yet sophisticated pasta dish that’s bursting with bold flavors. Its spicy, smoky sauce paired with silky pappardelle noodles makes for an unforgettable meal that’s as comforting as it is exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or indulging in a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your craving for something special.

This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for both weeknight dinners and celebratory meals. The combination of heat from the Calabrian chilis and the rich, hearty texture of the pappardelle makes it a standout dish that’s guaranteed to leave everyone asking for more.

I’d love to see how your Calabrian Chili Pappardelle turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!