Description
Indulge in a creamy Mushroom Pasta that combines earthy mushrooms with al dente pasta in a luscious garlic and herb sauce. This comforting dish is topped with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings, it’s a flavorful celebration of simple ingredients.
Ingredients
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- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne works well): The base of the dish.
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- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button mushrooms), sliced: The star of the dish, providing flavor and texture.
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- 1 cup heavy cream: For a rich and creamy sauce.
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- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth.
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- 1 small onion, diced: For sweetness and flavor.
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- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
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- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: For a cheesy finish.
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- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, or basil): Enhances the flavor of the sauce.
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- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
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- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish: Adds freshness and color.
Instructions
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and have released their moisture. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs to enhance the flavors.
Once the mushrooms are cooked, reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Mix well to combine, and let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
After the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added flavor.
Plate the Mushroom Pasta, and for an extra touch, sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top. Serve immediately, and enjoy the rich flavors!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 12g