Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Caramelized Fennel Paccheri with Sausage & Pistachios

Caramelized Fennel Paccheri with Sausage & Pistachios

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This Caramelized Fennel Paccheri is a rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring Italian sausage, caramelized fennel and onions, garlic, white wine, wilted spinach, and nutty pistachios. Finished with grated pecorino cheese and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for an indulgent yet easy dinner. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh side salad!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 3 tbsp butter, divided
  • 1/2 cup roasted salted pistachios, chopped
  • Olive oil, as needed
  • 1/2 lb mild Italian sausage (raw)
  • 3/4 lb paccheri pasta
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 large fennel bulb, cored and thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup white wine
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 lb fresh spinach
  • 3/4 cup grated pecorino cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  • Toast the Pistachios:

    • In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter.
    • Add chopped pistachios and toast for 1 minute until fragrant. Set aside.
  • Cook the Sausage:

    • Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat and coat the bottom with olive oil.
    • Add the sausage, breaking it into pieces, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned.
    • Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  • Caramelize the Fennel & Onions:

    • In the same pot, add red onion, fennel, and a pinch of salt.
    • Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and tender.
  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Cook paccheri 2 minutes less than the package instructions, stirring occasionally.
  • Make the Sauce:

    • Stir garlic and red pepper flakes into the caramelized fennel mixture, cooking for 30 seconds.
    • Pour in white wine and reserved pasta water. Bring to a simmer and reduce for 3-4 minutes.
  • Combine Everything:

    • Drain the pasta and add it to the pot, stirring well to coat.
    • Stir in spinach, sausage, and remaining 2 tbsp butter until warmed through.
    • Gradually fold in pecorino cheese until melted into the sauce.
    • Add basil and parsley, stirring to combine.
  • Serve:

    • Transfer pasta to a serving bowl and garnish with toasted pistachios, extra pecorino, and fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
  • Substitute pecorino with Parmesan if preferred.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg