Are you ready to ignite your taste buds? Look no further! In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 recipes that feature the bold and spicy flavor of Calabrian chili. This Italian staple is made from a type of hot pepper called peperoncino, which adds a depth of heat and flavor to any dish.
Whether you’re a pasta lover, a seafood enthusiast, or just looking for a new way to spice up your meals, we’ve got you covered. From classic pasta dishes to innovative meatball recipes and even sweet treats like brownies, we’ve rounded up the best of the best when it comes to Calabrian chili. So go ahead, heat things up with these 20 Spicy Calabrian Chili Recipes for Bold Flavor!
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Calabrian Chili Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
A flavorful and spicy pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of Calabrian chili peppers, garlic, and olive oil. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp Calabrian chili pepper flakes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Add Calabrian chili pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the chili-garlic mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Calabrian Chili Shrimp Scampi
A spicy twist on the classic shrimp scampi, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of Calabrian chili peppers and fresh parsley.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili peppers, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Stir in Calabrian chili peppers, white wine (if using), lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Calabrian Chili Chicken with Lemon and Herbs
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and zesty recipe, featuring the spicy kick of Calabrian chili peppers, the brightness of lemon, and a medley of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2-3 Calabrian chili peppers, minced (depending on desired heat level)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Calabrian chili peppers, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, and parsley.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Calabrian Chili Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella
This recipe combines the classic combination of sausage and mozzarella on a pizza with the bold, spicy flavor of Calabrian chili peppers. The result is a unique and delicious twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 4 Italian sausage links, casings removed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Calabrian chili peppers
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Cook sausage links in a pan until browned, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
5. Sprinkle chopped Calabrian chili peppers and cooked sausage over the sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Calabrian Chili Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
A twist on classic meatball sub sandwiches, this spicy recipe adds a bold kick from Calabrian chili peppers and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 Calabrian chili peppers, crushed (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and crushed Calabrian chili peppers. Mix well with hands or wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. While meatballs are baking, heat crushed tomatoes in a large skillet over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Calabrian Chili Grilled Steak with Chimichurri
Elevate your grilled steak game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the heat of Calabrian chili flakes with the bright, herby flavors of Argentinean chimichurri. This dish is perfect for those who love a little spice in their life.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank or skirt steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Calabrian chili flakes
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili flakes and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
4. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar in a small bowl to make chimichurri.
6. Once steak is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with chimichurri spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Calabrian Chili Roasted Vegetables with Parmesan
Elevate your roasted vegetables with the bold flavors of Calabrian chili and Parmesan cheese. This recipe adds a spicy kick to classic roasted vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red onion, peeled and sliced
– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 teaspoons Calabrian chili paste
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together bell peppers, zucchini, onion, garlic, and Calabrian chili paste.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and caramelized.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the roasted vegetables and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Calabrian Chili Hummus with Pita Chips
Spicy Calabrian Chili Hummus with Pita Chips Recipe
Introduce a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your snack time with this addictive Spicy Calabrian Chili Hummus and crispy Pita Chips combination.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup Calabrian chili peppers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita chips for serving
Instructions:
- In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, Calabrian chili peppers, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.
- Serve with Pita Chips for dipping.
Cooking Time:
Enjoy your spicy and savory snacking experience!
Calabrian Chili Bruschetta with Fresh Tomatoes
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful Calabrian chili-infused bruschetta, bursting with fresh tomatoes and crispy bread. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup Calabrian chili peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, Calabrian chili peppers, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tomato mixture onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle with chopped basil and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Calabrian Chili Avocado Toast with Poached Egg
Start your day with a flavorful twist on classic avocado toast. This recipe combines the richness of ripe avocados with the spicy kick of Calabrian chili peppers, all topped with a perfectly poached egg.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2-3 Calabrian chili peppers, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large egg
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread mashed avocado on each slice of toast.
3. Sprinkle chopped Calabrian chili peppers over the avocado.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Poach the egg by cracking it into a pot of simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
6. Place the poached egg on top of the toast and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Calabrian Chili Crab Cakes with Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with these bold and delicious crab cakes, infused with the spicy kick of Calabrian chili peppers. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Calabrian chili peppers, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Aioli (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, mayonnaise, garlic, Calabrian chili peppers, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape into patties.
4. Place crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Aioli Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve chilled with crab cakes.
Calabrian Chili Risotto with Parmesan and Basil
Elevate your risotto game with this spicy and savory Calabrian chili-inspired dish, perfectly balanced by the richness of Parmesan and the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili paste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in Calabrian chili paste and cook for an additional minute.
6. Remove from heat, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Calabrian Chili Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the spicy kick of Calabrian chili, all wrapped up in a flavorful rice filling. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup Calabrian chili paste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with Calabrian chili paste, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Calabrian Chili Lamb Kebabs with Tzatziki
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful lamb kebabs infused with the bold flavors of Calabrian chili peppers. Paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 Calabrian chili peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, Calabrian chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano. Mix well.
3. Thread lamb mixture onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Calabrian Chili Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the bold flavors of Calabrian chili and melted mozzarella. This spicy twist on a classic comfort food is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1-2 teaspoons of Calabrian chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of tomato soup for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese, Calabrian chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately with a bowl of tomato soup.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Calabrian Chili Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines the heat of Calabrian chili flakes with the freshness of lime crema. This dish is perfect for adventurous eaters who crave bold flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as mahi-mahi or cod), cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili flakes
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Chopped cilantro, scallions, or radishes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together fish, olive oil, Calabrian chili flakes, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled fish, a dollop of lime crema, and your choice of garnishes.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Spicy Calabrian Chili Deviled Eggs with Bacon
Elevate your deviled egg game with a spicy kick from Calabrian chili peppers and the smokiness of crispy bacon. This unique twist on a classic appetizer is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Calabrian chili peppers, chopped (see note)
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Calabrian chili peppers until smooth.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika or chives if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required (all ingredients are already cooked)
Calabrian Chili Focaccia with Rosemary and Sea Salt
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Calabrian chili peppers, fresh rosemary, and flaky sea salt to create a unique and addictive focaccia bread. Perfect as a snack or side dish, this spicy treat is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup Calabrian chili flakes
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Flaky sea salt, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and flour; mix until shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead dough for 10 minutes; place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Punch down dough; spread on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle Calabrian chili flakes and chopped rosemary evenly over the dough.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven; sprinkle flaky sea salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Calabrian Chili Clam Chowder with Crispy Bacon
Warm up with this spicy and savory chowder, featuring the bold flavors of Calabrian chili peppers, succulent clams, and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Calabrian chili peppers, chopped (see note)
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add cooked bacon, onion, garlic, and Calabrian chili peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clam juice and bring to a simmer.
4. Add clams and cook until they open, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Calabrian Chili Chocolate Brownies with Sea Salt
These rich and intense brownies combine the heat of Calabrian chili peppers with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili flakes
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter.
2. Melt chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
3. Whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add Calabrian chili flakes and whisk until combined.
4. Add flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with sea salt. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 spicy Calabrian chili recipes! From pasta and pizza to meatballs and hummus, these bold flavors will elevate any dish. Try adding some heat to your morning with spicy crab cakes or deviled eggs, or take it easy with a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup. For something more substantial, try the roasted vegetables with parmesan or stuffed bell peppers with rice. Whatever your craving, there’s a Calabrian chili recipe here to satisfy.
