I made this sausage and mushroom pasta Recipe on a cozy evening when I wanted something creamy, filling, and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. From the first bite, I knew this recipe was a keeper because the savory sausage and earthy mushrooms blend perfectly with the rich, velvety sauce.

I love how this dish feels restaurant-worthy but is actually very simple to make at home, similar to how the skillet bourbon steak recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. The pasta soaks up all those flavors beautifully, making every forkful satisfying. If you enjoy comforting pasta dinners like I do, this one will quickly become a favorite, especially if you also appreciate dishes such as spaghetti alla nerano spaghetti with zucchini recipe for their rich yet balanced taste.

Ingredients Section

These ingredients come together to create a rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful pasta. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference in taste.

Italian sausage – 1 lb, casings removed – Mild or sweet works best
Rigatoni pasta – 12 oz – Holds sauce and sausage well
Fresh mushrooms – 8 oz, sliced – Button or cremini preferred
Olive oil – 1 tbsp – For browning sausage and mushrooms
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced – Adds warmth and aroma
Onion – 1 small, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth
Heavy cream – 1 cup – Creates a rich, creamy sauce
Chicken broth – ½ cup – Adds savory depth and balances richness
Parmesan cheese – ¾ cup, freshly grated – Smooth melting and bold flavor
Salt – ½ tsp (or to taste) – Season gradually
Black pepper – ½ tsp – Freshly cracked for best flavor
Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped – Adds freshness and color

Note: This ingredient quantity serves about 4 people generously.

Variations

Here’s a short line before options:
This recipe is flexible and easy to adapt based on dietary needs or personal taste preferences.

For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while cooking the mushrooms.
You can also use chicken or turkey sausage if you want a leaner protein option.
Spinach or kale can be stirred in at the end for added color and nutrition, but always use fresh greens, not frozen.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

Here’s a short introduction:
Using basic kitchen tools makes this recipe straightforward and stress-free.

Large pot – for boiling the pasta evenly
Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook sausage, mushrooms, and sauce together
Wooden spoon – for breaking up sausage and stirring the sauce
Colander – to drain the pasta properly
Measuring cups and spoons – to keep flavors balanced

How to Make Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Recipe?

Here’s a brief intro before steps:
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, comforting pasta ready in no time.

Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. I always reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining, just in case the sauce needs thinning later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook while breaking it into small crumbles. Let it brown well, as this adds deep flavor to the entire dish.

Add Onion and Garlic

Once the sausage is cooked through, stir in the chopped onion. Cook until it becomes soft and translucent, then add the garlic. Let it cook briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Sauté the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and stir well. Cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. This step is important for developing their rich, savory taste.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute to deglaze the pan. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring gently. Allow the sauce to simmer until it slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet and toss gently until every piece is coated with sauce. Let everything cook together for a minute so the flavors can fully blend.

Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta. Give it a final gentle toss before serving warm.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here’s a quick intro:
After making this dish several times, I’ve learned a few tricks that really elevate it.

I always brown the sausage well because those caramelized bits add incredible depth.
I slice mushrooms evenly so they cook at the same rate and don’t turn soggy.
I grate the Parmesan fresh because it melts smoother and tastes richer to me.
I let the sauce simmer gently instead of boiling to keep it creamy and smooth.

How to Serve Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Recipe?

Here’s a short intro:
Presentation and simple sides can make this pasta feel extra special.

Serve the pasta hot in wide bowls so the sauce pools nicely around the rigatoni. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, or a light drizzle of olive oil. I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to balance the richness. For a cozy dinner, serve it with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli on the side.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of what this dish provides per serving:

Calories: Provides energy and keeps you full for hours
Protein: Comes mainly from sausage and cheese, supporting muscle health
Carbohydrates: Supplied by the pasta for sustained energy
Fat: From cream, cheese, and sausage, adding richness and satiety

Make Ahead and Storage

Here’s a brief intro:
This pasta stores well, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigerating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly as it cools.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. I recommend freezing in individual portions for easier reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s a short line to start:
This sausage and mushroom pasta is one of those dishes that checks all the boxes.

It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require fancy ingredients, making it perfect for busy days.
The recipe is versatile and can be adapted to different diets or flavor preferences.
The creamy, savory flavor feels indulgent while still being homemade and comforting.
It works well for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings with friends or family.

Ash Tyrrell