Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this mushroom pasta recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering. This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with a luscious mushroom sauce that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The earthy notes of mushrooms blend beautifully with the cream, creating a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious meal at home!
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
- 250g mushrooms (cremini or button)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1/4 cup white wine
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time takes about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving of creamy mushroom pasta (about 250g) contains approximately:
– Calories: 600
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 65g
– Fat: 30g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, clean and slice the mushrooms.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms, cooking until they are golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Gradually mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option. Additionally, any pasta type can be used, including whole wheat or gluten-free varieties, to suit your dietary preferences.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy mushroom pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream may separate upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture; always cook al dente.
- Using too much heat can burn the garlic; sauté it gently.
- Not cleaning mushrooms properly can affect flavor; always rinse and dry well.
- Forgetting to season can lead to bland pasta; taste and adjust seasoning.
- Adding cold cream to a hot skillet can curdle; let it warm slightly first.
Helpful Tips
- Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor compared to pre-grated options.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or shrimp to the dish.
- Experiment with different types of mushrooms for varied tastes.
FAQs
Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, dried mushrooms can be rehydrated and used, but they may impart a stronger flavor. Soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes before use.
What pasta types work best for this recipe?
Fettuccine and linguine are ideal, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, including penne or spaghetti.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based cream, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and ensure the pasta is egg-free.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be made ahead of time, but the pasta may absorb the sauce, so add a bit more cream when reheating.
Conclusion
This creamy mushroom pasta recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a weeknight or served to guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g fettuccine or linguine
- 250 g mushrooms cremini or button
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1/4 cup white wine
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, clean and slice the mushrooms.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms, cooking until they are golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Gradually mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
