There’s something special about comfort food that warms your heart and satisfies your soul. Robust German-Style Noodles with Smoked Sausage and Mushrooms is a dish that checks all the boxes. This hearty, flavorful recipe combines smoky sausage, earthy mushrooms, and creamy, cheesy noodles for a meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or need something cozy for a quiet evening at home, this dish brings a taste of Germany to your table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be amazed at how delicious and rewarding it is to make this recipe from scratch.
Why You’ll Love Robust German-Style Noodles with Smoked Sausage and Mushrooms
This recipe has everything you could ask for in a meal:
- Bold, smoky flavors: The smoked sausage gives this dish its signature German-inspired taste.
- Creamy and comforting: A luscious sauce made with heavy cream and melted cheddar cheese ties everything together.
- Simple yet hearty: Perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough to serve at a dinner gathering.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, switch up the sausage, or use a different type of pasta—it’s incredibly versatile!
- One-pot wonder: While you’ll need a pot for the pasta, most of the cooking happens in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients for German-Style Noodles with Smoked Sausage and Mushrooms
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting dish:
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Oil for frying | 2 tablespoons |
Onion, chopped | 1 |
Mushrooms, sliced | 0.5 lb (about 250 g) |
Smoked sausage, sliced | 1 lb (about 450 g) |
Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
Pasta (penne or rotini) | 0.5 lb (about 250 g) |
Tomatoes, diced | 2 |
Chicken broth | 2 cups |
Heavy cream | 0.5 cups (about 120 ml) |
Cheddar cheese, grated | 4 oz (about 120 g) |
Salt, black pepper, oregano | To taste |
Parsley (optional, for garnish) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Robust German-Style Noodles with Smoked Sausage and Mushrooms
Let’s break this recipe down into easy, manageable steps so you can cook it like a pro:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Chop the onion, slice the mushrooms, and cut the smoked sausage into thin slices.
- Finely mince the garlic and dice the tomatoes into small cubes.
- Set all your prepped ingredients aside for quick assembly during cooking.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
3. Sauté the Onion and Mushrooms
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the mushrooms in the skillet, as this can make them soggy.
4. Cook the Smoked Sausage
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet with the onions and mushrooms.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy around the edges.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Prepare the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and stir everything together.
- Simmer the mixture for about 2-3 minutes, letting the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
6. Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sausage and mushroom sauce until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top and stir gently until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve
- If desired, garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the dish warm, and enjoy its creamy, smoky, and robust flavors!
Tips for Perfect German-Style Noodles
- Choose quality sausage: Smoked kielbasa, bratwurst, or any high-quality smoked sausage will work beautifully in this recipe.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember to cook it al dente, as it will continue to absorb some of the sauce when mixed in the skillet.
- Add more vegetables: Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and color.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a kick of heat.
- Reheat gently: If you have leftovers, reheat them on low heat with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (recipe serves 4):
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~550 |
Protein | ~28g |
Carbohydrates | ~35g |
Fat | ~30g |
Fiber | ~3g |
FAQ: German-Style Noodles with Smoked Sausage and Mushrooms
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage gives the dish its signature flavor, you can use bratwurst, chorizo, or even turkey sausage as substitutes.
2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli works best because they hold the sauce well and mix easily with the other ingredients.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and replace it with more mushrooms or a vegetarian sausage alternative. You can also add extra veggies like zucchini or broccoli.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
6. Can I use milk instead of cream?
While milk can be used, the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead.
Why This Recipe is Worth Trying
Robust German-Style Noodles with Smoked Sausage and Mushrooms is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The smoky, savory flavors of the sausage combined with the earthy mushrooms, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner for your family or a comforting dish to share with friends, this recipe delivers every time.
Ready to Cook?
Gather your ingredients and get started on this delicious, German-inspired comfort food. One bite of this creamy, cheesy pasta dish will transport you straight to the heart of Germany. Try it tonight, and watch your family ask for seconds!
PrintRobust German-Style Noodles with Smoked Sausage and Mushrooms
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Dive into the comforting flavors of Germany with this Robust German-Style Noodles with Smoked Sausage and Mushrooms recipe. Smoky sausage, earthy mushrooms, and creamy pasta come together in a rich, cheesy sauce for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 2 tablespoons oil for frying
- 1 onion, chopped
- 0.5 lb mushrooms, sliced
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 lb pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 2 tomatoes, diced
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt, black pepper, oregano to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the onion, slice the mushrooms, and cut the smoked sausage into thin slices.
- Finely mince the garlic and dice the tomatoes.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Heat a large pot of salted water until it reaches a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Mushrooms
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until translucent.
- Add the mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender.
Step 4: Cook the Smoked Sausage
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet with the onions and mushrooms.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy around the edges.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss it with the sausage and mushroom sauce until well coated.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top and stir until the cheese is melted and evenly incorporated into the sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve the pasta warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Notes
- Sausage Options: Smoked kielbasa, bratwurst, or chorizo work beautifully in this recipe.
- Vegetable Add-Ons: Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat with a splash of cream or broth.
- Customizable: Adjust spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicier kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sauté and Simmer
- Cuisine: German-Inspired Comfort Food