Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce is a comforting, rich, and flavorful Italian dish that combines the delicate texture of pappardelle pasta with a savory, earthy mushroom sauce. The wide ribbons of pappardelle perfectly complement the hearty and luxurious sauce, making every bite a satisfying experience. The mushrooms, often sautéed with garlic, herbs, and a touch of cream, create a deep, umami-packed flavor that envelops the pasta in a silky coating.

Whether you’re in the mood for a simple weeknight dinner or planning a special meal to impress guests, Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce is a versatile and delicious choice. It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that delivers an abundance of flavor while still being easy to prepare. This guide will walk you through the steps of making this dish from scratch, offering helpful tips and creative variations to suit any taste.

Why You’ll Love Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce

• Hearty and Flavorful: The combination of fresh pappardelle pasta and a rich mushroom sauce creates a satisfying dish that is both savory and comforting. The mushrooms offer an earthy taste that pairs perfectly with the pasta.
• Luxurious Texture: The silky mushroom sauce and tender pappardelle noodles blend together to create an indulgent texture that is both smooth and satisfying, making each bite a treat for the senses.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Despite using just a few basic ingredients, this dish delivers layers of flavor. The mushrooms bring an earthy richness, while the cream adds a velvety finish to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Delight: Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce is a perfect option for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal without compromising on flavor or richness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or a celebratory meal, this dish is both elegant and approachable, making it a go-to recipe for various occasions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 60-70g
• Protein: 12-15g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 5-6g

Ingredients

For the Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce:

• 12 oz (340g) pappardelle pasta (or other wide, flat pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 16 oz (450g) mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and/or portobello), sliced
• 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Special Equipment

While making Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Large Pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the pappardelle pasta. You’ll need plenty of water to allow the pasta to cook evenly.
2. Large Skillet or Pan: A large skillet is perfect for sautéing the mushrooms and creating the sauce. A wide surface allows the mushrooms to cook evenly and develop a nice caramelization.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the sauce as it simmers and for making sure all the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important, especially when adding liquids like broth and cream, as well as for seasonings.
5. Tongs or Pasta Spoon: Tongs or a pasta spoon will help you transfer the cooked pappardelle pasta into the sauce without breaking the delicate ribbons.
6. Grater: A fine grater will be useful for grating fresh Parmesan cheese, ensuring that the cheese melts easily into the sauce for a creamy texture.
7. Serving Plates or Bowls: Serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls for an elegant presentation that lets the sauce shine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pappardelle Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest of the water from the pasta. Set the pasta and pasta water aside.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning the garlic. This creates a flavorful base for your sauce.

3. Cook the Mushrooms

Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook the mushrooms for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become browned and caramelized. The mushrooms should reduce in size and take on a golden color. The browning adds depth to the flavor of the sauce.

4. Add the Broth and Simmer

Once the mushrooms are browned, pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer). Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as this adds flavor to the sauce. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Add the Cream and Butter

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and butter to the pan. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the cream is well incorporated into the sauce. The cream will add richness and a velvety texture to the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (or fresh thyme if you have it) to taste.

6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pappardelle pasta to the skillet with the mushroom sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it in the sauce, making sure the pasta is evenly covered. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky consistency.

7. Finish with Parmesan and Herbs

Once the pasta is well coated in the sauce, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a salty, nutty flavor and help thicken the sauce further. Continue tossing until the cheese is melted and the sauce has a creamy consistency. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, if desired. Serve immediately while the dish is warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce

• Use Fresh Mushrooms: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality mushrooms. Different varieties, like cremini, shiitake, and portobello, add a variety of textures and depths of flavor to the sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the mushrooms, make sure they are not crowded in the pan. If necessary, cook them in batches to ensure they brown evenly and develop a rich flavor.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. The starchy water is excellent for adjusting the consistency of the sauce and helping it adhere to the pasta.
• Customize the Herbs: While thyme is a classic herb in mushroom sauces, feel free to experiment with others. Rosemary, sage, or even tarragon would work well with the earthy mushrooms.
• Add More Flavor: If you want a deeper flavor, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or a bit of soy sauce before adding the broth. This will add an additional layer of complexity to the sauce.

Variations of Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce

• Vegan Mushroom Sauce: For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream and butter with coconut cream or a plant-based butter alternative. Use vegetable broth, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free version.
• Pappardelle with Mushroom and Spinach Sauce: Add a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. The spinach will wilt down and add a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Pappardelle with Truffle Mushroom Sauce: Elevate the dish by drizzling it with a bit of truffle oil or adding truffle salt to the sauce for a luxurious, earthy finish.
• Pappardelle with Mushroom and Bacon Sauce: For a meaty variation, crisp up some bacon in the skillet before adding the mushrooms. The bacon will add a smoky, savory flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Pappardelle with Mushroom and Goat Cheese Sauce: Crumbled goat cheese stirred into the sauce at the end will add tang and creaminess, complementing the earthiness of the mushrooms.

Storage and Shelf Life

Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the mushroom sauce (without the pasta) for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Cook fresh pappardelle pasta and combine with the thawed sauce for a quick and delicious meal.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce

Pair this indulgent pasta dish with complementary sides to enhance your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Fresh, warm garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up the creamy mushroom sauce.
• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery and tangy contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts are excellent accompaniments, adding a healthy, flavorful balance to the meal.
• Wine Pairing: A light to medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Chianti, pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce.

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Conclusion

Pappardelle with Mushroom Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that combines simple ingredients with rich, layered flavors. The wide ribbons of pasta soaked in a creamy mushroom sauce are a perfect combination of texture and taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, this dish will impress with its sophistication and warmth. Enjoy every savory bite of this satisfying, vegetarian-friendly Italian classic!