If you’re seeking a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, look no further than this creamy mushroom pasta recipe. With its rich sauce and earthy flavors, it’s an ideal meal for any day of the week. Perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a velvety mushroom sauce creates a delightful combination that will please your palate and impress your guests.
Ingredients
– 200g pasta of your choice (fettuccine or spaghetti recommended)
– 250g mushrooms (cremini or button)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 150ml heavy cream
– 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 300g) contains about 500 calories, 20g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 35g of fat, making it a hearty meal for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and brown.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and toss it with the mushroom sauce until well-coated.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use a plant-based cream for a vegan version. Additionally, any variety of mushrooms can be used based on preference or availability.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy mushroom pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not seasoning the sauce properly can make the dish bland.
- Using low-quality mushrooms may affect the flavor.
- Skipping the garlic can reduce the aromatic quality of the dish.
- Adding cream too quickly can cause it to curdle.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as you cook.
- Consider adding spinach or peas for added nutrients.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
You can make this dish vegan by substituting heavy cream with a plant-based cream and omitting the cheese.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan option or any hard cheese you have available.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make great additions to enhance the protein content.
Conclusion
This creamy mushroom pasta recipe is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with a comforting texture. Its versatility allows for various ingredient substitutions, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this indulgent meal any time you crave something savory and satisfying.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta of your choice
- 250 g mushrooms cremini or button
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 150 ml heavy cream
- 50 g Parmesan cheese grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and brown.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and toss it with the mushroom sauce until well-coated.
