Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
There are days when a bowl of pasta needs to be simple, fast, and deeply comforting without becoming too heavy or overly complicated. This creamy mushroom pasta is exactly that kind of meal: earthy mushrooms, garlic, cream, Parmesan, and parsley wrapped around hot pasta in a sauce that feels rich but still balanced.
Temps de préparation 15 minutes mins
Temps de cuisson 15 minutes mins
Catégorie Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Portions 2 Portions
Calories 450 kcal
- 12 oz pasta
- 1 lb mushrooms sliced
- 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 to 3 tbsp flat-leaf parsley chopped
- 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high to high heat.
Add the mushrooms and cook until their moisture evaporates and they brown well.
Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the pasta and toss with the mushrooms.
Pour in the cream, add the black pepper, and lower the heat slightly.
Stir in the Parmesan, parsley, and enough pasta water to create a smooth, glossy sauce.
Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Serve hot with extra Parmesan and parsley.
FAQ
Can I make this with milk instead of cream?
You can, but the texture will be thinner and less stable. Heavy cream gives the sauce its body. If using milk, reduce it more carefully and rely on Parmesan plus pasta water to help the sauce come together.
Can I add chicken?
Yes. Sliced cooked chicken works well here, but this particular recipe is meant to keep the focus on mushrooms. If you want a chicken version from the start, a dish like creamy garlic mushroom chicken is a better fit.
Why are my mushrooms watery?
Usually because the pan was not hot enough, the pan was overcrowded, or the mushrooms were stirred too often early on. Let them sit long enough to release moisture and then brown.
Do I really need the pasta water?
Yes. It helps emulsify the sauce and gives a more professional texture. Without it, the sauce can feel heavier and less cohesive.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes, but gently. Add a spoonful of water or cream in the pan while reheating so the sauce loosens back up.
Is this a full meal?
For many people, yes. It is a hearty vegetarian comfort dish with enough richness to stand on its own. If you want a larger spread, add a salad or another vegetable side.Mots clés 30 minutes, Pasta
