Description
This creamy mushroom pasta recipe features sautéed assorted mushrooms in a rich garlic and shallot infused cream sauce, tossed with fresh pasta and finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, it combines earthy flavors with silky textures for a comforting and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Mushroom Cream Sauce
- 300 grams assorted mushrooms (about 10 oz), washed and sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 200 ml heavy cream (about ¾ cup)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
Pasta
- 400 grams fresh pasta (about 14 oz)
- Parmesan cheese, 100 grams grated (about 1 cup), plus extra for garnish
- Reserved pasta water, 1 cup (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and slice the mushrooms, mince the garlic, and finely chop the shallots. This ensures all components are ready to cook smoothly.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fresh pasta according to package instructions, typically 2-4 minutes until al dente. Reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms turn golden brown and have released their moisture.
- Add Cream and Adjust Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the mushrooms. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the mushroom cream sauce. Toss well to ensure every strand is coated. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh thyme, mixing thoroughly.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh thyme if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy at its creamiest and freshest.
Notes
- Using fresh pasta shortens cooking time and gives a tender texture.
- Assorted mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster add more depth in flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavors.
- Grate Parmesan fresh for best melting and taste.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or crusty bread.
