When I’m in the mood for something comforting and indulgent, this Creamy Sausage and Mushroom Pasta is my go-to recipe. It’s a dish I started making years ago when I wanted to impress dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory sausage, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce is always a hit. Over time, it’s become a family favorite, especially on those nights when we need a little extra comfort. If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to make but feels special, this pasta is the answer. Let me show you how to make it—it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 35mins |
History of Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
This dish draws inspiration from Italian and American comfort food traditions. Sausage and mushrooms are a classic pairing, often found in pasta dishes, risottos, and casseroles. This creamy pasta version is a modern take on those flavors, combining hearty ingredients with a luxurious sauce for a satisfying meal.
Why Sausage and Mushroom Pasta?
This dish is perfect for anyone who loves rich, flavorful meals that are easy to prepare. It’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is minimal, and it’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, making it as simple or as fancy as you like.
What is Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Made Of?
The dish is made with Italian sausage, mushrooms, pasta (such as fettuccine or penne), garlic, onions, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and seasonings like thyme and parsley. It’s a simple combination of ingredients that come together to create a creamy, satisfying meal.
What to Have with Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
This pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A side of garlic bread or crusty bread
- A simple green salad
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
Is Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Healthy?
It’s a rich and indulgent dish, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. To make it healthier, you can use turkey sausage, whole wheat pasta, and substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Adding extra veggies like spinach or zucchini can also boost the nutritional value.
Kitchen Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are golden and the onion is softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, use a mix of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! Turkey sausage or chicken sausage work well in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Is this dish spicy?
It depends on the sausage you use. Mild Italian sausage will keep it mild, while spicy sausage will add heat.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sausage and Mushroom Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try—it might just become your new go-to pasta dish!
MORE RECIPES
Creamy Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are golden and the onion is softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.