This mushroom pasta with sauce is a comforting dish that’s easy to whip up! Soft pasta pairs perfectly with rich, savory mushrooms and a tasty sauce that ties it all together.
I love how quick this meal is, making it perfect for busy nights. Plus, who can resist a big bowl of pasta? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for holding the sauce due to its tube shape. You can substitute it with any pasta you like, such as fusilli or spaghetti. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free pasta; it works just as well!
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for cooking as it adds a lovely flavor. You could swap it with butter for a richer taste or use a neutral oil like vegetable oil if you prefer.
Mushrooms: A mix of button and cremini mushrooms adds depth to the dish. If you can’t find fresh mushrooms, canned mushrooms work in a pinch. For a different flavor, try using shiitake or portabello mushrooms.
Heavy Cream: This helps create a rich and creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor, but if you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano make great substitutes. Nutritional yeast is also a wonderful dairy-free swap.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
A smooth, creamy sauce makes all the difference! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by sautéing garlic and mushrooms to build flavor. Cook them well enough to release their moisture.
- Add the broth and let it simmer before adding the cream. This helps the flavors blend nicely.
- When you add the cream and cheese, stir constantly. This prevents the sauce from burning and helps it thicken evenly.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water or extra broth to reach your desired consistency.
With these tips, your sauce will come out rich and perfectly coating your pasta every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Delicious Mushroom Pasta With Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 10 oz (280g) mushrooms, sliced (mix of button and cremini recommended)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic, sautéing it for about 1 minute. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nicely softened and browned. This step really enhances their flavor!
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly, which should take about 3 minutes. This helps concentrate the flavors.
5. Make It Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The creamy sauce should be rich and luxurious!
6. Season the Sauce:
Season your sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, so start with a little and adjust according to your preference.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the mushroom sauce. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with that delicious sauce.
8. Finish with Parsley:
Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It adds color and a lovely taste that complements the dish beautifully.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your mushroom pasta is now ready to serve! Dish it out onto plates, garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan if you like, and enjoy your creamy, savory meal!
Enjoy your creamy, savory mushroom pasta! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses penne, you can substitute it with any pasta you have on hand, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this mushroom pasta vegan, simply use plant-based cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream) and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. You can also replace the olive oil with vegan butter for added richness.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also toss in some cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.