Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of creamy mushroom pasta, a dish that elevates simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. With fragrant mushrooms sautéed to perfection and enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 200g fettuccine pasta
- 250g fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg
Servings and Cooking Time
This creamy mushroom pasta recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this creamy mushroom pasta contains approximately 550 calories, 30g fat, 50g carbohydrates, 20g protein, and 2g fiber. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the mushrooms.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg to taste.
- Combine the cooked fettuccine with the creamy mushroom sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creamy mushroom pasta!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version. For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth instead of butter, and for added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or tofu.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy mushroom pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. For a delightful beverage, enjoy it with a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Pinot Noir.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to a month.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Don’t rush the mushrooms; allow them to caramelize for maximum flavor.
- Adding cold cream directly can cause the sauce to separate.
- Make sure to season adequately for a balanced flavor.
- Using too much heat can scorch the garlic.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
- Try different types of pasta for a unique twist.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil for added freshness.
- Taste as you go to ensure perfect seasoning.
FAQs
Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, dried mushrooms can be used but must be rehydrated before cooking. Soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes, then chop and add to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this dish vegan, use plant-based cream, skip the cheese, and replace butter with olive oil.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu make great additions to enhance the dish’s protein content.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute for Parmesan, providing a similar flavor profile.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper to the sauce for a kick of heat.
Conclusion
This creamy mushroom pasta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Easy to prepare and rich in taste, it’s sure to please your palate and impress your guests. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g fettuccine pasta
- 250 g fresh mushrooms sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the mushrooms.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
- Combine the cooked fettuccine with the creamy mushroom sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creamy mushroom pasta!