How to Make Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Looking for a quick and satisfying pasta dish? Creamy mushroom pasta is the perfect choice! This rich and savory recipe is simple enough for beginners but still impressive enough for guests.

Creamy mushroom pasta consists of al dente penne, sautéed mushrooms, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The combination creates a luscious sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s hearty yet light, making it ideal for cold winter nights or even as a warm side dish during warmer months.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225g) penne pasta
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 large shallot, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Usually, this will take about 8-10 minutes.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped shallot and sauté until soft, around 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add Mushrooms: Pour in the sliced mushrooms into the skillet with the garlic mixture. Stir continuously until the mushrooms have released their liquid and started to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix Everything Together: Once your pasta is cooked al dente, drain it thoroughly but reserve some of the cooking water. Add the drained pasta back into the skillet with the mushroom mixture. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Taste and Adjust: Taste your creamy mushroom pasta and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
6. Serve Warm: Serve the creamy mushroom pasta hot in bowls. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired for garnish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 580 kcal, Protein: 35g, Carbohydrates: 74g, Fat: 31g

Tips and Variations

• To make it extra creamy: Add a little more cream or half-and-half for an even richer sauce.
• Use other cheeses: Swap the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, try using nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• Incorporate vegetables: Add in some sautéed spinach or broccoli for added nutrients and color.

Creamy mushroom pasta is not just about the sum of its ingredients; it’s also about how well they complement each other. The mushrooms add depth, the cream creates richness, and the garlic provides a subtle kick that ties everything together beautifully.

This dish can be prepared with minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Whether you're looking for comfort food or something to impress friends at dinner parties, creamy mushroom pasta fits the bill perfectly! It’s versatile enough to pair well with a variety of sides such as garlic bread, crusty baguette slices, or even a simple green salad.

For those who enjoy leftovers, this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before enjoying again. Alternatively, you can freeze portions individually wrapped and use them as needed later on.

The combination of tender pasta, earthy mushrooms, creamy sauce, and rich flavors makes this dish a favorite among many home cooks. Whether you're an experienced chef or just starting out in the kitchen, trying your hand at making creamy mushroom pasta is sure to become one of your go-to recipes.

If you decide to try this recipe, feel free to share your results! What adjustments did you make? Did you experiment with any other ingredients? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below. Bon Appétit!