Pasta with Sausage and Mushrooms: A Comforting Italian Delight
When it comes to comforting, satisfying dishes, nothing compares to the richness of pasta combined with savory sausage and earthy mushrooms. This classic Italian recipe, “Pasta Funghi e Salsiccia,” perfectly balances the hearty flavors of sausages and the delicate taste of porcini mushrooms, all brought together in a luscious creamy sauce. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to please every palate. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions for creating this mouthwatering meal that serves four.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Trofie (or any pasta of your choice) | 320g |
| Sausage (preferably Italian) | 300g |
| Porcini mushrooms | 300g |
| Fresh liquid cream | 100g |
| White wine | 100g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh rosemary | 1 sprig |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Mushrooms
Begin by carefully cleaning the porcini mushrooms. Start by cutting off the earthy stems, making sure to remove any dirt or debris. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the mushrooms, or for a deeper clean, a soft brush can be used to remove any remaining soil. Once cleaned, slice the mushrooms into thin pieces, about 5 millimeters in thickness, to allow for even cooking and flavor absorption.
Step 2: Cooking the Sausage and Aromatics
Next, heat a splash of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add one whole garlic clove, lightly smashed with the blade of a knife, to infuse the oil with flavor. Allow the garlic to cook for a minute or two until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
Once the garlic has infused the oil, remove the casing from the sausage and crumble it into the pan. Sauté the sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it becomes golden and crispy on the edges, releasing its flavorful oils.
Step 3: Adding the Mushrooms and Herb Infusion
Once the sausage is nicely browned, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir well to combine, and let the mushrooms sauté until they begin to release their moisture and shrink down. As they cook, season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
Add a sprig of fresh rosemary to the pan, letting it release its aromatic oils into the mixture. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together, and once the liquid from the mushrooms has mostly evaporated, remove the rosemary sprig. This step is essential to allow the natural aromas of rosemary to infuse the dish without overpowering it.
Step 4: Deglazing with White Wine
Once the mushrooms have softened and the sausage is fully cooked, it’s time to deglaze the pan with white wine. Pour the wine into the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to concentrate. This step adds depth to the dish and helps bring all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Preparing the Creamy Sauce
After the wine has reduced, pour in the fresh cream. Stir the cream into the mixture, allowing it to simmer gently for a few minutes. The cream will thicken slightly, forming a rich, velvety sauce that coats the sausage and mushrooms perfectly. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed, to taste.
Step 6: Cooking the Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the trofie or your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions, typically for about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
Step 7: Bringing It All Together
Once the pasta is ready, reserve a cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sausage and mushroom mixture, tossing to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add a little bit of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 8: Serving
Serve the pasta hot, straight from the pan, with an extra sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. The rich combination of creamy sauce, savory sausage, and earthy mushrooms will make each bite irresistible. For a finishing touch, you can garnish with a few extra rosemary leaves or a light drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Tips for Success
- Sausage Selection: Opt for Italian sausage for the best flavor. If you prefer a spicier dish, choose a hot variety, or keep it mild for a more balanced flavor.
- Mushroom Alternatives: If you can’t find porcini mushrooms, any variety of wild mushrooms or even cremini mushrooms will work well as a substitute.
- Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like a Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to complement the richness of the sausage and cream sauce.
Conclusion
This Pasta with Sausage and Mushrooms recipe is a simple yet indulgent dish that showcases the magic of combining fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe brings together hearty pasta, savory sausage, and earthy mushrooms in a delicious, creamy sauce. Serve it with a side of crusty bread and a light salad for a meal that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a family or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
