Few dishes are as comforting as a bowl of pasta coated in a creamy sauce. This Creamy Mushroom Pasta takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a rich, satisfying meal in just 25 minutes. Silky fettuccine noodles are swirled in a garlicky mushroom cream sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese for an irresistibly smooth texture.
This recipe is quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for dinner parties. With earthy mushrooms, fresh garlic, and a luscious cream base, it’s a pasta dish that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Step 2 – Cook the Mushrooms
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden and caramelized, about 5–6 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3 – Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Step 4 – Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet. Toss to coat the noodles evenly, adding splashes of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 5 – Serve
Season with salt and black pepper. Plate immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2–3
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples and fresh mushrooms.
- Rich and Creamy – The Parmesan and cream sauce clings perfectly to pasta.
- Versatile – Works as a standalone meal or alongside grilled chicken or steak.
Tips and Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
- Extra Vegetables: Spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes add flavor and color.
- Cheese Lovers: Swap or combine Parmesan with Pecorino Romano.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or thyme for added aroma.
- Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
What to Serve with Creamy Mushroom Pasta
- Garlic bread or focaccia to soak up extra sauce.
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
- A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for pairing.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 14 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 3 g
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes. Penne, spaghetti, or linguine all work well.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, plus vegan Parmesan.
What mushrooms are best?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms add a deep flavor, but button mushrooms also work.
Conclusion
This Creamy Mushroom Pasta is the definition of comfort food: rich, garlicky, and indulgent. With just a few simple ingredients and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish ready at home. Serve it as a main course, pair it with your favorite protein, or enjoy it with a glass of wine for a cozy night in.