Garlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter, mingling with the earthy scent of mushrooms and the comforting steam of freshly cooked pasta. This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta is a dream for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, delivering indulgence in every bite.

this Recipe

I stumbled upon this recipe on a chilly evening when my fridge offered only mushrooms, garlic, and cream. With just a few pantry staples, it turned into an instant family favorite, perfect for those craving a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal. Let’s dive into what makes this dish irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta! It’s the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and satisfying.

First, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish on the table—ideal for those nights when time is tight but your taste buds are demanding something spectacular.

Second, it’s budget-friendly. Made with simple ingredients like pasta, mushrooms, and garlic, this dish won’t break the bank, but it will feel like a luxurious indulgence.

It’s also versatile and customizable. Whether you prefer a vegetarian meal or want to toss in some chicken or shrimp, this recipe adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.

Finally, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The creamy garlic sauce coats every strand of pasta, and the mushrooms add a rich, meaty texture that’s oh-so-satisfying. This is a recipe you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor.

• Mushrooms: Choose cremini or baby bella mushrooms for a richer flavor, but white button mushrooms work in a pinch. Slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate and develop a golden sear.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! Its aromatic intensity is the backbone of this dish. Use a garlic press for convenience or mince it finely by hand.
• Pasta: Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are ideal choices for this creamy sauce, but short pasta like penne or rigatoni will also work if you prefer a heartier texture.
• Heavy cream: This forms the base of the sauce, giving it a luxurious, velvety texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for its nutty, salty flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Butter and olive oil: A combination of these fats ensures rich flavor and prevents the butter from burning while cooking the garlic and mushrooms.

Optional equipment: A microplane grater for the Parmesan and a large skillet for cooking the sauce.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Creating this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta is as satisfying as eating it! Here’s how to bring it all together:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes to allow them to brown, then toss and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper, then remove the mushrooms from the skillet.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of butter. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of reserved pasta water, stirring to combine. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the mushrooms to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss to coat everything in the creamy garlic sauce. Stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce further. If needed, add more pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Storage Options

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so be prepared to loosen it with a splash of water or cream when reheating.
• Freezing: While the cream-based sauce may separate slightly upon freezing, it’s still safe to freeze. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to re-emulsify the sauce.
• Reheating Tips: Warm the pasta on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Microwave reheating works too—use 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Add Protein: Sautéed chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon make excellent additions for a heartier meal.
• Go Vegetarian: Enhance the umami by adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
• Make It Spicy: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Use Different Cheeses: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs beautifully with the garlic and mushrooms, while a sprinkle of fresh chives can brighten the dish.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is a fantastic base for culinary creativity.

Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend indulgence, this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Try it tonight and see why it’s a favorite!

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