Creamy Mushroom Pasta is a simple and comforting dish made with tender mushrooms, creamy sauce, garlic, and pasta. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight and can be served as a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Cook the Mushrooms
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until they are tender and lightly browned.
3. Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
5. Combine With Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
6. Serve
Season with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Pasta
- Use a mixture of mushrooms for more flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan so the mushrooms can brown properly.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Optional Additions
You can customize this pasta by adding:
- Spinach
- Grilled chicken
- Cherry tomatoes
- Broccoli
- Fresh basil
- A pinch of red pepper flakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and less creamy. You can add a little extra Parmesan to help thicken it.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely. Spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, and linguine all work well.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. Simply use vegetable broth if you decide to add broth, and make sure your Parmesan is suitable for your dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Creamy Mushroom Pasta is an easy and delicious dish that combines earthy mushrooms with a rich Parmesan cream sauce. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a great recipe for a cozy homemade dinner.