If you are looking for a dish that brings both comfort and elegance to your dinner table, this Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. With its luscious, velvety sauce infused with earthy cremini mushrooms and fragrant herbs, it delivers a perfect balance of rich flavors that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe combines simple ingredients in a way that feels indulgent without being complicated. The creamy texture paired with the subtle hint of garlic and thyme makes every bite memorable and guarantees you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, contributing depth, creaminess, and vibrant flavor to the dish. From the tender linguine to the fresh herbs, these essentials come together effortlessly to create a dish that feels both gourmet and homey.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: A great base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully without overpowering it.
- 16 ounces cremini mushrooms: Also known as baby Bella mushrooms, they bring an earthy, umami-packed bite; gently cleaning is key to preserving their flavor and texture.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create that silky sauce you can’t resist.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter with a subtle fruity undertone and aids in cooking the mushrooms evenly.
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a warm aroma and a subtle kick to elevate the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses delicate, herby notes that complement the mushrooms perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overwhelming the palate.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle heat that sharpens the overall flavor profile.
- ½ cup milk: Used with cornstarch to thicken the sauce while keeping it light and creamy.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: The secret to the sauce’s perfect texture, making it luxuriously thick without heaviness.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Creates that indulgent, silky consistency that makes this pasta irresistible.
- 1 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese (divided): ¾ cup goes into the sauce for that signature savory bite, and ¼ cup is saved for garnish to add a fresh burst of cheesy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (roughly chopped): Lends a fresh, green vibrancy and subtle brightness to the dish.
- â…› teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle heat that wakes up the flavors without overpowering the creaminess.
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional): Used while cooking to infuse fresh herbal notes and removed before serving.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a final touch of color and freshness when serving.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine Pasta
Begin by boiling the linguine pasta as directed on the package. Cooking it just right ensures your noodles will have the perfect al dente texture to hold up beautifully against the creamy mushroom sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Butter and Olive Oil
In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with the olive oil. This blend creates a flavorful base that helps tenderize and brown the mushrooms without burning them.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic
Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them gently, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften and turn a rich brown color, about 15 minutes. This slow cooking helps the mushrooms release their natural juices and develop deep, savory notes.
Step 4: Add Thyme and Seasonings
Sprinkle the dried thyme over the mushrooms, stirring for about a minute to let the herbs bloom and infuse the pan with their fragrance. Then, season everything with salt and pepper to bring out those essential flavors.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Mix the cornstarch into the half cup of milk until it’s fully dissolved. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the mushrooms, stirring continuously until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. This step helps achieve that creamy consistency that makes this dish so comforting.
Step 6: Combine Cream, Cheese, and Herbs
Add the heavy whipping cream, three-quarters of the parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh thyme sprigs to the skillet. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir gently until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes silky and smooth. Don’t forget to remove the woody thyme sprigs before serving!
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Toss the cooked linguine with the mushroom cream sauce or plate it individually, then sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top. The garnishes add an extra burst of flavor and a lovely visual touch that invites you to dig right in.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese make fantastic garnishes, brightening the rich sauce while adding a little crunch and color contrast. A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring just the right hint of spice if you want to amp up the excitement on your plate.
Side Dishes
This creamy mushroom pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, perhaps dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for contrast. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices also complement the dish beautifully, perfect for scooping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your creamy mushroom pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and mushrooms elegantly. For a special occasion, garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of truffle oil to elevate the earthy flavors into something truly luxurious. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty dimension to the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, place any leftover creamy mushroom pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, you can freeze it. However, note that creamy sauces sometimes separate during freezing and reheating. To minimize this, freeze the pasta and sauce separately if possible, and gently reheat with a splash of milk to restore its creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat your creamy mushroom pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Adding a bit of milk or cream while reheating helps revive the smooth texture. Microwaving works too, but do it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming without curdling the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms offer a lovely earthy flavor, you can mix in shiitake, button, or even wild mushrooms for varied textures and tastes. Just adjust cooking times slightly depending on the mushroom’s density.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use coconut or almond milk in place of dairy milk, and choose a vegan cream substitute. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan cheese to keep that savory note.
What pasta types work best for this creamy mushroom sauce?
Linguine is ideal because its flat shape holds the sauce nicely, but you can also try fettuccine, penne, or even pappardelle. The key is choosing pasta that allows the sauce to cling well.
Can I add protein to this Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta all pair wonderfully with this sauce. Add protein to turn this dish into a more substantial meal while keeping the flavors balanced.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner if needed?
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix a little more cornstarch with cold milk and stir it in while cooking. For a thinner sauce, simply add small amounts of milk or cream until you reach the desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
I truly love sharing this Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe because it feels like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend dinner, it’s a dish that impresses without stress. I hope you’ll try it soon and enjoy every glorious bite as much as I do.
Print
Creamy Mushroom Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy mushroom pasta is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender linguine with a luscious sauce made from cremini mushrooms, garlic, herbs, and a blend of milk, cream, and parmesan cheese. It’s an easy-to-make meal perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
Mushroom Sauce
- 16 ounces cremini mushrooms (baby Bella), cleaned gently and sliced as preferred
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese (divided into ¾ cup and ¼ cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped
- â…› teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (several, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Boil the linguine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Butter and Oil: In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together to prepare for sautéing the mushrooms.
- Cook Mushrooms and Garlic: Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 15 minutes.
- Add Thyme: Sprinkle dried thyme over the mushrooms and cook for about one minute, stirring frequently to blend the flavors.
- Season: Season the mushroom mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Thicken Sauce: Mix the cornstarch into the ½ cup of milk until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet with the mushrooms. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, add ¾ cup of grated parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh thyme sprigs. Stir well.
- Melt Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir the sauce gently until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Remove and discard the woody thyme sprigs.
- Serve: Toss the cooked linguine pasta into the sauce or plate the pasta and spoon the mushroom sauce over it. Garnish with the remaining ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh cremini mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for none.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Ensure to remove woody thyme sprigs before serving to avoid an unpleasant texture.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy texture at its best.
