Dive into a comforting bowl of pasta bursting with the flavors of earthy mushrooms, smoky sausage, and rich cream. This dish is a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making it a delightful meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz (approx. 0.5 lb) fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 16 oz (1 lb) smoked sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 8 oz (0.5 lb) your choice of pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
- 2 ripe tomatoes, cubed
- 2 cups of chicken stock
- 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Dried oregano, to taste
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Base: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re soft and have released their moisture.
- Cook the Sausage: Introduce the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet, stirring until the sausage is nicely browned on the edges. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, letting them cook down for a couple of minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Creamy Transformation: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, seasoning with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. Allow the sauce to gently simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Cheese and Garnish: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the pasta, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Warm: Serve the creamy sausage and mushroom pasta hot, ensuring each plate is filled with the comforting, creamy goodness of this hearty dish.
Enjoy this creamy delight with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete, satisfying meal.