This Mushroom Pasta with Sauce is a cozy dish that’s perfect for any day! Tender pasta is mixed with juicy mushrooms and creamy sauce, making it oh-so-comforting.
When I make this, the smell of mushrooms sizzling always gets everyone excited! Pair it with a sprinkle of cheese, and it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend rotini since its twists hold onto the sauce beautifully. You can also use penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Mushrooms: Button and cremini mushrooms are my go-tos for their nice flavor. If you want something different, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a heartier bite.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. This will still give you creaminess without the full fat.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers the best taste, but you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
How Do You Sauté Mushrooms Perfectly?
Getting perfect sautéed mushrooms is crucial for flavor. Start with a hot skillet to achieve that golden brown color and avoid steaming them. Here are my tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you add too many mushrooms at once, they’ll steam instead of sauté.
- Let them sit without stirring for a couple of minutes, then stir occasionally to get even browning.
- Cook until they’re golden brown and release most of their moisture for the best flavor.
Mushroom Pasta With Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mushroom Pasta with Sauce will take about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. With just a few steps, you’ll quickly have a comforting and delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once bubbling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them, stirring occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and tender. The aroma will be delightful!
3. Add Garlic and Broth:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 1 minute until you can smell the wonderful fragrance. Then, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, letting it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time for the heavy cream! Stir it into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let this cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit. Don’t forget to stir it occasionally!
5. Combine Everything:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until it melts and combines beautifully with the creamy mixture. Season it with salt and black pepper to your taste.
6. Toss in the Pasta:
Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Make sure the pasta is well coated with that creamy, mushroom sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mushroom Pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works well for its ability to hold the sauce, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative to maintain that creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Mushroom Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even cooked chicken or shrimp to make the dish heartier. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms for extra flavor!