Italian Sausage and Mushroom Penne Pasta

Servings 6

Using a large pot, bring 6 quarts of water to boiling.
Add the penne pasta and salt and boil until al dente (or follow package directions).
Set 1/2 cup of the pasta water aside.
Drain the pasta.

Turn on the broiler.
Use a large saucepan (4 or 5 quarts) that can be placed under a broiler, like a cast iron one.
Heat the saucepan on your range over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and heat until it just starts to smoke.
Add the sausage and cook until it is browned. Break up any big chunks.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a bowl. Leave the oil and fat in the saucepan.
Add the garlic and let it cook about 30 seconds, then add the mushrooms. Cook the mushrooms about 3 or 4 minutes.
Add the sausage to the skillet along with the half cup of pasta water and the cup of cream. Cook about 4 minutes, until it starts to thicken.

Turn off the heat under the mushroom sausage mixture and stir in the pasta.
Add the mozzarella and parmesan cheese and mix.
Place the broil-proof saucepan under the broiler for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and golden brown on top.