Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Name: Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g fettuccine or linguine; 200g mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, button), sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 200ml heavy cream; 100ml vegetable broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely adore making Creamy Mushroom Pasta because it’s both comforting and elegant. The combination of earthy mushrooms, rich cream, and al dente pasta creates a dish that feels special yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Whenever I'm in the mood for something satisfying, this dish comes to mind. The best part is that it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, so I can whip it up even on the busiest days. Trust me, this delightful pasta will impress anyone at your table!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-05T15:00:48.890Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Mushroom Pasta, I was amazed by how a few simple ingredients could come together to create such depth of flavor. The secret is in using a variety of mushrooms, which adds both texture and richness. I remember sautéing them with garlic and thyme, and the aroma filling my kitchen was simply irresistible!

One key tip I've learned is to reserve some pasta water before draining. Adding a bit of this starchy liquid to the sauce helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency. Not only does it elevate the dish, but it also enhances the overall flavor. Each bite is a comforting hug from the inside out!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory mushroom flavor that delights the palate
Creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every pasta strand
Quick and easy, perfect for both weeknight meals and dinner parties

Creating the Perfect Sauce

The creamy sauce in this dish is what makes it comforting, and it starts with the base of sautéed garlic and onions. Cooking them until they are translucent allows their aromatic qualities to fully infuse the oil. Use medium heat to avoid burning; golden edges are a sign they are ready for the mushrooms. The richness of heavy cream combines beautifully with the earthiness of the mushrooms, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that complements the pasta impeccably.

When adding the vegetable broth and cream, be sure to maintain a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil. Simmering reduces the liquid slowly, enhancing the sauce's concentration without risking separation. You should stir frequently during this phase to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth finish. This step usually takes about 5 minutes, so keep an eye on the consistency—you’re aiming for a creamy, slightly thickened coating that clings to your pasta.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Variety in mushrooms elevates the dish, providing a range of textures and flavors. While cremini and shiitake are my go-to choices for their rich, umami qualities, you can experiment with different types like oyster or portobello for added depth. Each type brings a unique surge of flavor; for instance, the meatiness of portobello enhances heartiness. Just remember to slice them uniformly for consistent cooking, allowing them to caramelize evenly in the skillet.

If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute mushrooms with zucchini or spinach to cater to various dietary preferences—though the flavor profile will shift. If you’re making this dish vegetarian, ensure your vegetable broth is labeled as such, as not all broths are created equal. This choice can dramatically influence the final taste, so select a high-quality broth to enhance the overall dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

300g fettuccine or linguine
200g mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, button), sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
200ml heavy cream
100ml vegetable broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Mushroom Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Ingredients

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until they're softened and have released their moisture.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Mushroom Pasta with a sprinkle of extra parsley or cheese on top!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to incorporate some white wine into the sauce, letting it reduce before adding cream. You can also mix in some spinach or kale for extra greens!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Pasta can indeed be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping. You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta until al dente, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, and add a splash of reserved pasta water if it appears too thick. Reviving it with water helps maintain its smooth consistency.

Freezing this dish is less ideal due to the cream, which may separate upon thawing. However, if necessary, you can freeze the mushroom sauce in a separate airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so on low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Just cook freshly made pasta when you’re ready to serve for an optimal texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Mushroom Pasta, consider enhancing its presentation with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. The acidity from lemon can cut through the richness of the cream, adding a refreshing contrast. Garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brings a pop of color and freshness, complementing the earthy flavors beautifully.

Pairing this dish with a simple side salad, such as arugula with a light vinaigrette, can provide a crunchy texture that balances out the creaminess of the pasta. For those who enjoy a hint of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can be an excellent addition both during cooking or as a finishing touch at the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy will work wonderfully in this recipe.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan cream alternative, and use vegetable-based pasta.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

A combination of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms gives the best flavor and texture.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.