Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe

Picture this: it’s been a long day, and all I want is to dive into a bowl of comfort, something creamy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Enter my creamy mushroom fettuccine—a symphony of flavors where the silky sauce embraces each strand of pasta like a warm hug. Let’s get cooking and make dinnertime the best part of the day!

I love crafting simple yet indulgent dishes, and this creamy mushroom pasta is a favorite of mine. With the earthy flavors of cremini mushrooms and the richness that comes from a mix of olive oil, butter, and heavy cream, it transforms fettuccine into a comforting, satisfying meal.

The savory touch of Parmesan complements the aromatic garlic and thyme perfectly, making this dish irresistible.

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe Ingredients

• Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin D; earthy and umami flavor.
• Garlic: Boosts immune health; adds robust, aromatic depth.
• Heavy Cream: Adds creamy texture; high in fat content.
• Parmesan Cheese: Savory taste; provides protein and calcium.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats; mild fruity flavor.

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb (450g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional: truffle oil for drizzling

How to Make this Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe

1. Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter until melted.

3. Add the onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.

4. Stir in the garlic and continue to cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Add the sliced mushrooms, salt, pepper, and thyme to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

7. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is well combined and begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.

8. Stir in the remaining butter and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles evenly in the creamy mushroom sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

10. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, and drizzle with truffle oil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Colander
3. Large skillet
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Sharp knife
8. Cutting board
9. Cheese grater

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
  A: Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine.
• Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
  A: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
• Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
  A: You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative, but it may slightly alter the creaminess.
• Q: Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
  A: Use plant-based cream or coconut milk, omit the Parmesan or use vegan cheese, and replace butter with a plant-based alternative.
• Q: How can I add more protein to the dish?
  A: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for additional protein.
• Q: What can I use instead of truffle oil?
  A: If you don’t have truffle oil, a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of truffle salt can add a similar earthy flavor.

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Fettuccine: Substitute with spaghetti, linguine, or penne.
• Olive oil: Can be replaced with canola oil or sunflower oil.
• Cremini or button mushrooms: Substitute with portobello or shiitake mushrooms.
• Heavy cream: Use half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut cream for a lighter option.
• Parmesan cheese: Replace with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a non-dairy option.

Pro Tips

1. For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after cooking the mushrooms, allowing it to reduce alongside the broth. This will enhance the sauce’s richness.

2. To ensure your mushrooms develop a nice golden color, do not overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook them in batches to allow for more even browning.

3. Reserve more than a little pasta water in case you want to adjust the consistency of the sauce. The starches in the pasta water help bind the sauce to the noodles, creating a silkier texture.

4. For a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, toast the Parmesan cheese lightly in a dry pan before adding it to the sauce. This step can elevate the overall taste of the dish.

5. If you want to intensify the earthy aroma, finish with a light drizzle of truffle oil just before serving. Be cautious not to overpower the dish; a little goes a long way.