Calabrian Chili Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Calabrian Chili Pasta delivers a bold and spicy flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. Made with savory garlic, Calabrian chili paste, and a touch of cream or cheese, this pasta dish combines heat and richness in perfect balance. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that brings the vibrant taste of Southern Italy to your table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastagarlicolive oilCalabrian chili paste (or chopped Calabrian chilis)Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)heavy cream (optional)lemon juice (optional)fresh parsley (for garnish)saltblack pepper

directions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Stir in Calabrian chili paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.

Add a splash of reserved pasta water and stir to combine.

(Optional) Add heavy cream for a richer sauce and stir in grated Parmesan or Pecorino until melted.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.

Season with salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, if using.

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost.

Use shrimp or grilled chicken for added protein.

Try it with bucatini or rigatoni for a different texture.

Swap cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.Avoid microwaving for too long to maintain texture and flavor.

FAQs

What is Calabrian chili paste?

It’s a spicy Italian condiment made from Calabrian peppers, known for their deep flavor and moderate heat.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian if you skip adding any meat or seafood.

Is it very spicy?

It has a medium heat level, but you can adjust the amount of chili paste to your preference.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Omit the cheese and cream, and use a plant-based alternative if desired.

What pasta shapes work best?

Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine, or tube shapes like penne or rigatoni work well.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce in advance and reheat with cooked pasta.

How do I tone down the heat?

Use less chili paste and balance with more cheese or cream.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the sauce and pasta.

Is Calabrian chili paste easy to find?

It’s available at many grocery stores or online, often in the Italian foods section.

What’s a good substitute for Calabrian chili paste?

Crushed red pepper flakes or another chili paste can be used, though the flavor will differ.

Conclusion

Calabrian Chili Pasta is a fiery yet creamy dish that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. It’s perfect for those who love a little heat with their comfort food and want to explore the bold tastes of Southern Italian cuisine. Simple, spicy, and satisfying—this pasta might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner.

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