Creamy Bucatini with Italian Sausage: An Irresistible Weeknight Pasta Recipe
Bucatini with Italian sausage is a truly satisfying meal that promises to become a staple in your recipe rotation. This delightful pasta dish is generously loaded with tender mushrooms, sweet grape tomatoes, and coated in a rich, savory white wine sauce made with exquisite Parmesan cheese. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s perfect for any dinner occasion and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors you’ll absolutely adore.
This recipe and associated content previously featured a sponsored giveaway by Fontanella Winery. My genuine appreciation for the Fontanella family and my love for their exceptional wines remain entirely my own.
Prepare to discover your new go-to pasta dish with this incredibly yummy and flavor-packed bucatini with Italian sausage recipe. Drawing inspiration from a wonderful visit to California, this dinner is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it the perfect comfort food for anyone craving a taste of sunshine in a bowl. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for a special gathering.
The star of this dish, **savory Italian sausage**, is expertly browned alongside aromatic **shallots, earthy mushrooms, and a touch of red pepper flakes** for a subtle kick. Each ingredient harmonizes beautifully, creating a complex flavor profile that will have you eager for seconds – and definitely for **leftovers**. This hearty, flavorful pasta is sure to bring warmth and joy to your dining table.
Bucatini with Italian Sausage: A Comfort Food Classic
There’s truly nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a generous bowl of pasta for dinner, or even a hearty lunch. This specific **bucatini pasta recipe** features rich Italian sausage perfectly complemented by **tender mushrooms** and juicy **grape tomatoes**. Not only does this combination deliver incredible flavor, but it also provides a wonderful boost of additional **protein**, making it a well-rounded and fulfilling meal. Above all, the taste is simply exceptional, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Pasta is a dish I could enjoy almost daily, and I frequently revisit some of my tried-and-true favorites when planning meals. This particular **Italian sausage pasta** isn’t just a constant repeat in my own home; it joins other beloved recipes like my Southwest Chicken Linguine, comforting Skillet Lasagna, and vibrant BLT Pasta recipes. Each offers a unique twist on classic pasta, ensuring there’s always something delicious to look forward to.
What is Bucatini Pasta? Why It’s Perfect for This Recipe
Bucatini pasta, sometimes referred to as **perciatelli**, shares a close resemblance to traditional spaghetti, yet it possesses distinctive **differences** that make it truly special. For starters, bucatini is notably **thicker** than spaghetti, offering a more substantial bite. Its most defining characteristic, however, is the **hollow center** that runs throughout each strand of the noodle. This unique tubular shape is absolutely perfect for **soaking up rich sauces**, allowing every bite to be saturated with the creamy white wine and cheese blend we’re creating. Furthermore, bucatini significantly enriches any pasta dish with its incredible texture—it’s wonderfully tender yet still provides a satisfying chew, making it exceptionally pleasant to eat. This delightful perciatelli pasta is particularly popular in the Lazio region of Italy, especially around Rome, where it’s a cherished staple in traditional cuisine. Its ability to capture and deliver flavor makes it an ideal choice for this hearty Italian sausage dish.
Essential Ingredients for Your Bucatini with Italian Sausage
Creating this flavorful bucatini with Italian sausage dish requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the incredible taste. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
Bucatini pasta – This wonderful noodle is key to absorbing every last drop of the delectable white wine sauce. Aim to cook it until al dente, meaning it’s still slightly firm to the bite and not overcooked, ensuring a perfect texture that stands up to the rich sauce. One pound typically serves 4-6 people generously.
Italian sausage – Choose a high-quality ground Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. It provides a foundational savory flavor profile, infused with classic Italian herbs like fennel, thyme, and rosemary, adding depth and authenticity to the dish.
Green onion – Also known as scallions, green onions offer a mild, fresh onion flavor and a vibrant pop of color. They complement the Italian sausage beautifully and enhance the overall aroma of the dish as it cooks.
Shallot – A culinary gem, the shallot is a delightful hybrid between an onion and garlic. When minced and cooked, it releases a delicate yet robust flavor that is essential for building an authentic and incredibly tasty sauce base.
Red pepper flakes – These provide a lovely warmth and a subtle kick, elevating the savory notes of the sausage. If you prefer a milder dish, you can easily adjust the amount or omit them entirely. For more heat, feel free to add a bit extra.
Mushrooms – Tender baby Bella (cremini) mushrooms are cooked alongside the sausage, adding an earthy depth, a fantastic texture, and an additional boost of protein. You can also experiment with other varieties like shiitake or button mushrooms for slightly different flavor profiles.
Butter – This forms the rich, silky base for our creamy white wine sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning precisely, creating a luxuriously smooth and flavor-packed sauce.
Dry white wine – The indispensable main ingredient for the sauce, dry white wine imparts a complex, rich flavor that truly cannot be replicated. It’s crucial to select a wine with higher acidity to properly deglaze the pan and cut through the richness of the cream. Excellent choices include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Blanc, or even a dry sparkling wine. Avoid sweet wines, as they will alter the intended flavor profile.
Heavy cream – This is responsible for the luxurious, creamy texture of the cheesy sauce. For a lighter alternative, you could substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, though the sauce might not be as thick or rich.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a non-negotiable component. Its distinct, salty, umami-rich flavors are absorbed by the sauce and noodles, making it a key element for that authentic Italian taste. Always use good quality Parmesan for the best results.
Fresh Italian parsley – A vibrant garnish and flavor enhancer, fresh parsley adds a burst of herbaceousness and brightens the entire dish. Always use fresh for the best flavor and visual appeal.
Fresh mozzarella – Added at the very end, fresh mozzarella melts slightly into the warm pasta, adding another layer of creamy, mild cheese flavor. If not available, serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese is a perfectly delicious alternative.
Grape tomatoes – Halved cherry or grape tomatoes are added as a fresh, sweet, and tangy garnishment at the very end. They provide a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that wonderfully balances the richness of the sauce. Do not skip this essential finishing touch!
How to Make Bucatini with Italian Sausage: Step-by-Step Guide
Crafting this delicious bucatini with Italian sausage is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal:
First, in a large pot or Dutch oven, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the bucatini pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. This typically means still having a slight chew to it. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for later use if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet (preferably cast iron for even heating), begin browning the ground Italian sausage over medium-high heat. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon. Add the sliced green onion, minced shallots, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté until the aromatics are fragrant and the sausage starts to cook through.
When the Italian sausage is about halfway cooked and no longer bright pink, stir in the baby Bella mushrooms. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned and no longer pink, and the mushrooms have softened and released their moisture. Drain any excess grease from the skillet if necessary.
Next, add the full stick of butter to the skillet with the sausage and mushroom mixture. Let it melt completely, coating all the ingredients and creating a rich base for the sauce. Once melted, pour in the dry white wine. Increase the heat slightly and let the wine simmer for about five minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom – these bits are packed with flavor!
After the wine has reduced, stir in the heavy cream until it is thoroughly combined with the wine and butter. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy consistency. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and let the sauce cook for another five to ten minutes. The sauce will gradually thicken as it simmers, becoming wonderfully lush. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Finally, add the cooked bucatini pasta and the fresh Italian parsley to the skillet. Gently toss all the ingredients together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce and heated through. To elevate this dish even further, serve immediately, topped with generous portions of fresh mozzarella and halved cherry or grape tomatoes. Enjoy this incredible pasta dish!
Expert Tips for a Perfect Bucatini Pasta Recipe
Achieving pasta perfection is simple with a few key tips:
- **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** It’s essential to cook the bucatini until it’s al dente – meaning it still has a slight bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its appealing texture, especially with the hollow center of bucatini. Follow package instructions closely and taste a strand a minute or two before the suggested cooking time.
- **Reserved Pasta Water is Gold:** Don’t discard all the pasta cooking water! It’s starchy and can be a lifesaver for adjusting the consistency of your sauce. If your sauce becomes too thick, a ladleful or two of this starchy water will help loosen it up while helping the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
- **Storage and Reheating:** Store any delightful leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re looking to enjoy this comfort food even later, portions can be stored in the freezer in an airtight container for up to six months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back the creamy consistency, or reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil.
- **Serving Suggestions:** This pasta is incredibly versatile! It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, a side of warm, crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls for soaking up every bit of sauce. For a complete Italian experience, consider serving it alongside a glass of your favorite dry red or white wine.
- **Spice Level Adjustment:** For those who love more heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce them or omit them entirely. You can also add a pinch of dried oregano or basil to the sauce for an extra layer of Italian aroma.
- **Cheese Variations:** While Parmesan and fresh mozzarella are classic, feel free to experiment. A sprinkle of Pecorino Romano could add a sharper, saltier kick, or a creamy dollop of ricotta could be stirred in at the end for an extra rich texture.
Loved This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Make sure you don’t forget where you discovered this incredible **Bucatini with Italian Sausage recipe**! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you leave, so it’s always handy when those pasta cravings hit!
This particular recipe was once proudly featured alongside a giveaway sponsored by the esteemed Fontanella Family Winery. Nestled atop Mt. Veeder in the heart of Napa Valley, CA, Jeff and Karen Fontanella not only cultivate their grapes but also craft their exceptional wines right on their beautiful property. We had the distinct pleasure of visiting their winery and meeting them in October of 2018, where we were immediately captivated by their inspiring story and, of course, their exquisite wines. Since then, we have gratefully become wine club members, as their unique wines are not typically found in retail stores. You can experience their offerings directly at their winery, through their user-friendly website, or by joining their exclusive wine club, a truly rewarding experience for any wine enthusiast. Their dedication to quality and passion for winemaking shines through in every bottle.
In the past, Fontanella generously offered readers a chance to win two bottles of their highly acclaimed 2019 Zinfandel, a wine valued at $116, shipped directly to the winner’s doorstep (open to US residents only, excluding Mississippi or Utah). Additionally, during a specific promotional period (March 1 – 31, 2021), they provided an exclusive promo code, AFFAIRHEART15, which offered readers 15% off their purchase. While these specific offers have concluded, the quality and character of their wines remain exceptional.
2019 Fontanella Zinfandel Tasting Notes: This Zinfandel is a testament to perfect structure and elegant balance. Jeff’s 2019 Napa Valley Zinfandel offers a plush mouthful of fruit, with delightful notes of caramelized raspberries, dried cranberries, and cherries that leap from the glass. These vibrant fruit flavors are beautifully framed by sweet barrel notes of vanilla, warm baking spices, and a hint of coffee. The slightly cooler 2019 harvest season contributed to an incredible balance, full body, and a concentrated, lingering fruit finish. This particular wine proved to be an absolutely perfect pairing with this spicy Bucatini Pasta, its robust fruit and subtle spice notes harmonizing wonderfully with the dish’s rich, savory flavors.
(Please note: The following section refers to a past promotional event.) As part of a 10th Anniversary celebration, there were many amazing gifts shared! In addition to the Fontanella wine mentioned, other prizes, including a KitchenAid mixer, were part of a fantastic giveaway event. You can learn more about past giveaway items in this blog post. While the contest has concluded, it highlights the spirit of celebration and appreciation for our readers.
(Past Giveaway Entry – No longer active)
a Rafflecopter giveaway
More Delightful Italian Sausage Recipes to Try
If you’ve enjoyed this bucatini with Italian sausage, you’ll love exploring more recipes featuring this versatile ingredient. Here are a few other fantastic Italian sausage creations:
Classic Italian Meatballs (pictured above, perfect with pasta)
Hearty Tortellini Soup with Spinach and Sausage
Spicy Tater Tot Casserole with Sausage & Mushrooms
Sweet Italian Sausages with Peppers and Onions
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, let’s get cooking! Make some delicious bucatini with Italian sausage and perhaps uncork a fine bottle of Zinfandel to complete the experience, shall we? 
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Print Recipe
Bucatini with Italian Sausage
Equipment
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
- 1 pound Bucatini pasta cooked al dente
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 bunch 8 pieces green onion, sliced
- 1 small shallot minced (about 2 Tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 16 ounces baby Bella mushrooms
- 1 stick of butter 1/2 cup
- 1 cup dry white wine I used Chardonnay
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces Parmesan cheese grated + more for serving if desired
- 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley
- Fresh mozzarella cheese and halved cherry or grape tomatoes for serving
Instructions
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In a large skillet, brown Italian sausage with green onion, shallots and red pepper flakes.
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When the meat is about halfway cooked, add in mushrooms. Continue cooking until meat is no longer pink.
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Add in the stick of butter and let it melt.
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Add in the wine and cook for about 5 minutes. Pour in cream.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese, reduce heat to simmer and let cook for about 5-10 minutes, sauce will thicken, be sure to stir it so it doesn’t stick.
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Add in cooked Bucatini and fresh Italian parsley, stir together and serve when it’s heated through, topped with chopped fresh mozzarella cheese and cherry tomatoes.
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