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Pasta alla Boscaiola (with Sausage & Mushrooms)

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A rustic and comforting Italian pasta dish featuring savory sausage, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for cool evenings or dinner with guests.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
  • 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or mixed), sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmigiano Reggiano (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned and crumbled. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and become golden brown, about 6–8 minutes.
  5. Deglaze with white wine if using, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  6. Return sausage to the pan. Stir in cream and simmer for 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
  7. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmigiano Reggiano if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use spicy sausage or red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
  • Half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter version.
  • Omit sausage and add extra mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
  • Add a spoonful of tomato paste for a rosé-style variation.
  • The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

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