This creamy mushroom pasta is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any day. With tasty mushrooms and a rich sauce, it’s comforting and oh-so-satisfying!
I can never resist the smell of mushrooms cooking! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up; just cook the pasta, stir in the sauce, and enjoy. You’ll be smiling after every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This pasta shape works great for holding the creamy sauce. If you don’t have penne, try fusilli or farfalle instead—they’ll both catch that delicious sauce nicely!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms are my go-to for their robust flavor, but button mushrooms are also perfect. If you want a different taste, try using shiitake or portobello mushrooms. Just remember that each type has its unique texture and taste!
Heavy Cream: The creamy texture comes from heavy cream, but you can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. You could swap it for pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Both work well!
How Do I Sauté Mushrooms Perfectly?
Sautéing mushrooms right is crucial for developing their flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium heat to get the skillet hot before adding oil or butter.
- Cook mushrooms in a single layer without crowding the pan; this helps them brown instead of steam.
- Allow them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. This way, they get that nice golden color!
- Keep stirring occasionally until they’re tender and have released most of their moisture.
This technique brings out the best in your mushrooms and makes the dish even tastier!
Mushroom Pasta With Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 12 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When done, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re nicely browned and tender. This will take about 6-8 minutes. The mushrooms will shrink and release some moisture, which is what we want!
3. Add Garlic:
Once the mushrooms are looking good, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell the fragrance of the garlic—this adds an amazing flavor to your dish!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low and carefully pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine with the mushrooms and garlic. Let it simmer gently for a minute.
5. Stir in Cheese and Season:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to season it with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce.
7. Serve:
Dish the pasta into bowls, and for that extra touch, garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your meal immediately while it’s warm and creamy!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor and creaminess of the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if necessary to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add in cooked chicken, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms or mix them in with the pasta and sauce!
