Indulge in the rich flavors of creamy mushroom pasta, a dish that perfectly marries the earthy taste of mushrooms with a velvety sauce. This recipe is ideal for a cozy dinner or impressing guests at a gathering. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into the details of making this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 250g pasta (fettuccine or tagliatelle)
- 200g mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200ml heavy cream
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately:
– Calories: 650
– Protein: 18g
– Fat: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 70g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugar: 2g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Additionally, use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. For a vegan option, replace cream with cashew cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy mushroom pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore creaminess. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream may separate upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness; always cook al dente.
- Not sautéing mushrooms long enough can cause them to remain rubbery.
- Using low-quality cream can affect the sauce’s richness.
- Forgetting to season the sauce will result in bland pasta.
- Adding cheese too early can cause it to clump instead of melting smoothly.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
- Reserve pasta water before draining; it’s great for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Top with extra Parmesan for a richer taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen mushrooms for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, but they may release more water during cooking, so be sure to sauté them longer to evaporate excess moisture.
What pasta shape works best for creamy mushroom pasta?
Fettuccine or tagliatelle are ideal because their flat shape holds the creamy sauce well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sautéed mushrooms for a kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the pasta is best fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just reheat and mix with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, creamy mushroom pasta is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for meatless meals. Just ensure all ingredients are vegetarian-approved.
Conclusion
Creamy mushroom pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite of this delectable recipe!
Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 250 g fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
- 200 g mushrooms sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Nutrition
