Pasta alla Norcina Recipe: Creamy Pasta with Sausage
Pasta alla Norcina is a classic Italian dish that originates from Umbria, in the heart of Italy. It's a simple yet delightful recipe featuring spicy Italian sausage, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can tweak the ingredients to your liking. For instance, adding sage brings a unique flavor, reminiscent of traditional Umbrian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a hearty and comforting meal that's easy to prepare. It's an ideal dish for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Recipe Video
Recipe Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (The Chef used Garlic Olive Oil)
- 1 pound Italian Sausage
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 4 ounces Baby Bella Mushrooms
- 2 teaspoons Fresh Sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Dry White Wine
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream
- Salt to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Pecorino Romano Cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (optional)
- 1 pound Penne Pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- Olive Oil, for drizzling
- Fresh Sage Leaves, for garnish (optional)
Recipe Instructions
- In a non-stick pan, add a tablespoon of olive oil and when hot add the sausage.
- Using a silicone spatula or a wooden spoon, break up the sausage. Aim for a nice Maillard reaction (browning) to enhance the flavor.
- In a separate saucepan, add another tablespoon of olive oil. When hot start caramelizing the chopped onion until it turns golden brown. This brings out the sweetness of the onions.
- Add the mushrooms to the onions. To help the mushrooms release water, add a pinch of salt.
- Continue cooking until the mushrooms lose all their moisture.
- Add the sage and garlic, when the garlic becomes fragrant, add the wine. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
- Pour the heavy cream into the pan, stir well, and let it simmer gently to thicken.
- Turn the heat off and add the cheese.
- Final Touch: Finish with a couple of tablespoons of unsalted butter for added richness and a smooth finish.
- You can add the pasta into the sauce pan or the sauce into a large pasta dish. It’s up to you!
- Enjoy this delicious and authentic Pasta alla Norcina, a dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table!
