This mushroom pasta with sauce is a cozy dish that warms your belly. Tender pasta meets earthy mushrooms, all covered in a rich, tasty sauce. Yum!
Cooking this dish makes the kitchen smell amazing! I love tossing in fresh herbs for a pop of flavor. It’s a simple meal that always impresses guests. Can’t wait to dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine or tagliatelle works great here for a nice texture. If you don’t have these, any other pasta shape like penne or spaghetti could do the trick. Just keep an eye on cooking times!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms are my favorite for their rich flavor, but button mushrooms are more common and still tasty. You can even mix in other mushrooms like shiitake or portobello if you want to switch it up.
Heavy Cream: This is key for the creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can substitute, and coconut milk works for a dairy-free choice. Just note that it will change the flavor a bit.
Bacon: While it adds a nice crunch and smoky flavor, you can easily omit it or use turkey bacon for a healthier option. If you want something plant-based, sauté some smoked paprika or add sun-dried tomatoes for flavor.
How Do I Properly Sauté Mushrooms for Maximum Flavor?
Sautéing mushrooms right is essential for great taste! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the mushrooms. This helps them brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking. This way, the moisture evaporates and you get that lovely golden color.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time—aim for about 5-7 minutes until they’re browned and tender. This really boosts their flavor!
With these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly sautéed mushrooms every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Mushroom Pasta With Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button mushrooms)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 slices bacon (optional), chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful mushroom pasta takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, toss in the fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). When done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and place them on a paper towel to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet for flavor!
3. Sauté the Mushrooms:
Now, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they start to brown and their liquid evaporates, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step really brings out the earthy flavor of the mushrooms!
4. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be sure not to let it burn!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine it with the sautéed mushrooms. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a creamy sauce.
6. Stir in Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts and incorporates into the sauce. Season it with salt and black pepper to your taste. It should be rich and flavorful!
7. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon pieces back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. The warmth from the pasta will help combine all the flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a hint of color and freshness. Serve the pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who like it extra cheesy!
Enjoy your rich and creamy mushroom pasta with garlic sauce!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or tagliatelle works beautifully, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like spaghetti or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Do I Store Leftover Mushroom Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also use smoked paprika to give a hint of smokiness without the meat.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk works well, although it will add a slightly different flavor to the sauce. Just keep in mind it may not be as thick or creamy.