Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of creamy mushroom pasta, a dish that effortlessly combines the earthiness of sautéed mushrooms with a luscious cream sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are browned and have released their moisture (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Create the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve:
- Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy mushroom pasta!
Tips:
- For added flavor, you can include a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms and let it reduce before adding the cream.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach or grilled chicken for a heartier dish!
Enjoy your creamy mushroom pasta! If you need any variations or additional tips, let me know!
