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Homemade Creamy Calamari Fettuccine photo

Creamy Calamari Fettuccine

This Creamy Calamari Fettuccine is a delightful twist on pasta, combining tender calamari in a luscious cream sauce!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound mushrooms sliced
  • 1 jar roasted peppers drained and sliced
  • 1 pound calamari rings fresh or thawed
  • 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
  • 1 package fettuccine pasta 16 oz
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped parsley to garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet for the sauce
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture.
  4. Add the sliced roasted peppers and calamari rings to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the calamari is opaque and cooked through.
  5. Pour in the half-and-half or heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season the mixture with dried Italian herbs, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
  6. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing it gently in the creamy sauce until well-coated. If needed, you can add a splash of pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
  7. Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Creamy Calamari Fettuccine hot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

  • Cooking with calamari can feel intimidating, but it's quite simple! Don’t overcook to avoid toughness.
  • Feel free to experiment with different herbs according to your personal taste.
  • If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute the cream with low-fat milk mixed with cornstarch.