If you have a soft spot for comforting, rich flavors wrapped in silky textures, then this Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe is going to steal your heart. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite, combining tender linguine and savory cremini mushrooms all enveloped in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce. Whether you’re making a cozy dinner for yourself or impressing friends with a simple yet elegant meal, this pasta is pure magic on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in building that unforgettable flavor and perfect mouthfeel. From the earthy mushrooms to the sharp Parmesan, every component complements one another beautifully.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: the perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce with every twirl.
- 16 ounces cremini mushrooms (baby Bella): choose fresh and firm mushrooms for the best texture and depth of flavor.
- 4 tablespoons butter: adds rich, velvety fat that helps create a luscious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: balances the butter and helps sauté the mushrooms evenly.
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic (minced): infuses the dish with that classic aromatic punch.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: for a subtle, herby earthiness that pairs beautifully with mushrooms.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: adds just the right amount of kick and warmth.
- ½ cup milk: combined with cornstarch to thicken the sauce naturally and keep it creamy.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: essential for thickening without heaviness or clumps.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: makes this pasta irresistibly creamy and smooth.
- 1 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese (divided): cheese delivers that umami richness and a slight tang—¾ cup cooked in, ¼ cup for topping.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (roughly chopped): adds bright color and fresh herbaceous notes.
- â…› teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): for a gentle layer of heat that awakens the palate.
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional): give the dish a fresh, herby garnish and aroma.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the linguine pasta
Start by boiling the linguine in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until just al dente. Perfectly cooked pasta creates the ideal base that soaks up that creamy sauce without becoming mushy—don’t overcook!
Step 2: Sauté mushrooms and garlic
While the pasta cooks, melt butter and olive oil together in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and minced garlic, then cook patiently until the mushrooms turn tender and develop a rich golden brown color, about 15 minutes. This slow sauté builds a deep, earthy flavor that’s essential for the dish’s character.
Step 3: Season and add thyme
Sprinkle the dried thyme over the mushrooms and stir for about a minute to release its fragrant oils. Then season everything with salt and pepper. These subtle seasonings help amplify the natural sweetness of the mushrooms and garlic.
Step 4: Create the creamy sauce thickener
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch into the milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the mushroom mixture, stirring continuously until the sauce starts to thicken beautifully. This step ensures your cream sauce has the right consistency—silky but not watery.
Step 5: Add cream, cheese, and herbs
Pour in the heavy whipping cream, followed by ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh chopped parsley, red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, and fresh thyme sprigs. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir carefully until the cheese melts into the cream, transforming the sauce into a velvety indulgence. Don’t forget to fish out the woody thyme sprigs before serving.
Step 6: Combine with pasta and serve
Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet, tossing everything together so that every strand of linguine is luxuriously coated in that creamy, flavorful mushroom sauce. Get ready to savor a bowl of comfort with every forkful!
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of the reserved Parmesan cheese along with extra fresh parsley adds a lovely visual contrast and boosts the dish’s fresh and cheesy notes. If you want, a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil can elevate the finish even more.
Side Dishes
This creamy mushroom pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also a welcomed companion for mopping up every last drop of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this pasta in rustic bowls or deep plates garnished with microgreens or edible flowers to enhance the earthy aesthetic. You can also layer the pasta in individual ramekins, topped with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy mushroom pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon chilling, but it will still taste delicious and can be gently reheated to creamy perfection.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, but cream-based sauces sometimes separate once thawed. If you freeze leftovers, do so in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Reheat gently and stir well to bring it back together.
Reheating
When reheating, the key is gentle heat—warm your pasta slowly in a skillet over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce looks too thick. This helps refresh the creamy texture without scorching or drying out the mushrooms and pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is excellent for holding the creamy sauce, fettuccine, penne, or even pappardelle would work beautifully. Choose a pasta shape that catches the sauce well.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute butter with vegan margarine, use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and opt for a vegan Parmesan substitute. Keep in mind this will adjust the flavor slightly, but still create a lovely, creamy mushroom sauce.
What mushrooms work best besides cremini?
Cremini mushrooms are perfect for their firm texture and flavor, but you can use button mushrooms or a wild mushroom mix for a more complex taste. Just be sure to clean them gently and adjust cooking time if needed.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the mushrooms for a noticeable but balanced spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce.
Is it okay to prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the creamy mushroom sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before adding freshly cooked pasta for quick assembly. This step saves time while still delivering fresh flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe is a true comfort food treasure that’s surprisingly easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or feeding a crowd, it delivers deep, savory goodness with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta dish!
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Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy mushroom pasta recipe features tender cremini mushrooms sautéed in butter and olive oil, combined with garlic, thyme, and a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce. Linguine pasta is boiled to perfection and then tossed in this rich, flavorful sauce, making it an ideal comforting dinner that can be prepared in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
Mushroom Sauce
- 16 ounces cremini mushrooms (baby Bella), cleaned gently and sliced as preferred
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese (divided into ¾ cup and ¼ cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped
- â…› teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- several sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
- fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil the pasta: Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté mushrooms and aromatics: In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking and stirring occasionally until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 15 minutes.
- Add dried thyme: Sprinkle the dried thyme over the mushrooms, stirring well, and cook for about one minute to release the herb’s fragrance.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing evenly with the mushrooms.
- Prepare the thickening mixture: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with ½ cup of milk, stirring until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the mushrooms, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Add cream and cheese: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, then add ¾ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese along with chopped parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh thyme sprigs. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Remove the woody thyme sprigs.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and gently toss to coat all the noodles evenly with the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta, then garnish with the reserved ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and additional chopped fresh parsley for a fresh finish.
Notes
- You can substitute cremini mushrooms with button or portobello mushrooms based on preference.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you want to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; omit for a milder flavor.
- Fresh thyme sprigs are optional but add wonderful aroma; you can also use just dried thyme if preferred.
- Cast-iron skillet is recommended for even heat distribution but any large skillet will work.
