Pasta alla Norcina

Introduction

Pasta alla Norcina is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of Umbria in one irresistible bite. The combination of creamy sauce, hearty sausage, and fragrant black truffle creates a dish that is both indulgent and deeply satisfying. This pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm, comforting embrace in a bowl. The way the sausage-infused sauce coats each bite of pasta, with the subtle earthiness of truffle shining through, makes for an unforgettable experience.

This dish holds a special place in my heart. I first made it on a chilly evening, craving something both simple and luxurious, and it instantly became a favorite. The aroma of garlic, sausage, and white wine simmering together filled the kitchen with an irresistible warmth. Stirring in the cream and Pecorino Romano at the end brings everything together into a luscious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of pasta.

Pasta alla Norcina is perfect for those nights when you want something deeply comforting yet effortlessly elegant. It’s fantastic on its own, but when finished with an extra sprinkle of cheese and a hint of freshly grated truffle, it becomes truly next-level. If you’re looking for a dish that feels special but is easy enough to make anytime, this pasta is the one to make!

Perfect for:

• Italian cuisine lovers
• Comfort food cravings
• Quick yet elegant meals
• Family-friendly dinners
• Special gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Pasta alla Norcina

• Rich and Creamy: A velvety sauce coats every strand of pasta for a satisfying bite.
• Flavorful Chicken Sausage: Seasoned with herbs and spices, it provides a deliciously hearty base.
• Quick and Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup for maximum enjoyment.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add extra vegetables for a personal touch.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 600-650 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

• 12 oz short pasta (rigatoni, penne, or fusilli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken sausage, casings removed
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for serving
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Sausage: A lean, flavorful alternative to traditional sausage while maintaining the dish’s hearty character.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a silky, luxurious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Pecorino Romano: Adds a salty, nutty depth that enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Garlic and Onion: Provide aromatic sweetness that balances the richness.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the sausage and enhance the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

2. Sauté the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned.
3. Cook the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

Finish the Sauce:

5. Add the Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in the grated Pecorino Romano, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

7. Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with extra Pecorino Romano and fresh parsley, then serve immediately.

How to Serve Pasta alla Norcina

• Classic Style: Serve in warm pasta bowls with extra cheese on top.
• With Garlic Bread: A side of toasted garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Alongside a Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Topped with Extra Pepper: A final sprinkle of black pepper enhances the dish’s depth.

Additional Tips for Pasta alla Norcina

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly into the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente to ensure the best texture when combined with the sauce.
• Control the Spice: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a blend of cream and milk.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add mushrooms or spinach for extra depth and nutrition.

Recipe Variations for Pasta alla Norcina

1. Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for more heat.
2. Vegetable-Packed: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients.
3. Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
4. Extra Cheesy: Mix in shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for even more creaminess.
5. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
6. Lemon Zest Twist: Add a touch of lemon zest for a fresh, bright contrast to the rich sauce.
7. Nutty Variation: Toss in toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch and depth of flavor.
8. Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh thyme or basil for an herby twist.
9. Roasted Garlic Upgrade: Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
10. Mild and Kid-Friendly: Omit the red pepper flakes and reduce the garlic for a gentler taste.

Freezing and Storage for Pasta alla Norcina

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: While the sauce may separate slightly when frozen, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment for Pasta alla Norcina

1. Large Skillet: Essential for cooking the sausage and sauce in one pan.
2. Pasta Pot: A sturdy pot for boiling the pasta to the perfect consistency.
3. Wooden Spoon: Ideal for breaking up sausage and stirring the sauce.
4. Box Grater: For freshly grating Pecorino Romano cheese.
5. Ladle: Useful for transferring pasta water into the sauce.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate proportions for the sauce.
7. Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly and efficiently.
8. Chef’s Knife: Perfect for dicing onions and mincing garlic.
9. Serving Bowls: Enhances the presentation for a restaurant-style experience.
10. Whisk: Useful for incorporating cream and cheese into a smooth sauce.

FAQ Section for Pasta alla Norcina

1. Can I use store-bought chicken sausage?
   Yes, pre-cooked chicken sausage works, but remove the casing and break it into crumbles for the best texture.
2. What pasta works best for this dish?
   Short pasta like rigatoni, penne, or fusilli holds the sauce well.
3. Can I substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan?
   Yes, but Pecorino Romano has a sharper, saltier flavor that enhances the dish.
4. Is this dish spicy?
   It has mild heat from red pepper flakes, but you can omit them for a milder taste.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese.

Print

Conclusion for Pasta alla Norcina

Pasta alla Norcina is a rich and comforting dish that beautifully showcases the flavors of Umbria in every bite. The combination of savory sausage, luxurious cream, and fragrant truffle or pecorino creates a harmony of textures and tastes that is both indulgent and deeply satisfying.

What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity—using just a handful of high-quality ingredients, you can achieve restaurant-worthy results right in your own kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal or as the star of a special dinner, Pasta alla Norcina is sure to impress with its bold flavors and velvety sauce.

I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this classic Italian recipe! Be sure to share your delicious creations and tag me on social media—I love seeing how you bring this dish to life. Buon appetito!