Introduction
There are some pasta dishes that feel like a big, warm hug in a bowl, and Penne with Mushrooms and Spicy Sausage is exactly that. Whenever I make this dish, I’m instantly reminded of cozy evenings at home—when all you want is something hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor.
The earthy depth of mushrooms paired with the bold, slightly fiery kick of spicy sausage creates a perfect balance. Toss in al dente penne pasta and a creamy, savory sauce, and you’ve got yourself a weeknight dinner that tastes like it came straight out of an Italian trattoria.
What makes this recipe so popular is its simplicity meets flavor explosion. It doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, but the final dish tastes like you spent all day cooking. Let’s dive in and make this pasta magic happen!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the best Penne with Mushrooms and Spicy Sausage:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta – or your favorite short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – extra virgin for best flavor.
- 1 lb (450 g) spicy Italian sausage – casings removed.
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms – cremini or baby bella, sliced.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine – or chicken broth.
- 1 cup heavy cream – or half-and-half for a lighter option.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – plus more for serving.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – optional, for extra heat.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste.
Substitution Ideas
- Healthier option: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt (stirred in at the end off-heat).
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free penne pasta.
- Vegetarian: Replace sausage with plant-based spicy sausage or extra mushrooms.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfect pasta every time:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente (usually 9–11 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is the secret to a silky sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and slightly crispy around the edges. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Toss in the garlic and mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms release their juices and turn golden brown. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet, then toss in the drained penne. Stir well to coat every piece of pasta in that luscious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot and watch it disappear!
Extra Tips
- Serving Suggestions:
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine like Chianti for the ultimate dinner experience. - Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. - Freezing:
This dish freezes well! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop. - Ingredient Swaps:
If you love veggies, add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.
Nutritional Information (per serving)*
(Adapted from Orsara Recipes)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 940mg
*Approximate values, will vary depending on exact ingredients used.
FAQ Section
Q: How long does Penne with Mushrooms and Spicy Sausage take to make?
A: From start to finish, about 30–35 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
Q: Can I substitute the sausage?
A: Absolutely! Swap it with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or a vegetarian option.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently for best results.
Conclusion
There you have it—Penne with Mushrooms and Spicy Sausage that’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for entertaining but easy enough for a busy weeknight.
I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Did you add extra veggies? Kick up the spice level? Drop a comment below, share this recipe with friends, and don’t forget to snap a picture for Instagram—tag me so I can see your delicious pasta creations! 🍝✨