I often find myself craving something that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and this creamy mushroom pasta hits that spot every time. The moment those sautéed mushrooms release their earthy aroma and mingle with the gentle garlic scent, the kitchen becomes a sanctuary. Then, the cream sauce thickens, wrapping the tender fettuccine in luscious comfort. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down and savor each bite, making weeknight dinners feel special without any fuss.
One evening, I remember coming home chilled to the bone after a rainy day. As the sauce simmered, the creamy fragrance filled the air, promising relief. When I finally sat down to eat, the pasta was silky, the mushrooms tender but with a slight bite, and the subtle thyme brought just enough warmth to balance the richness. Every forkful felt like a little moment of peace, reminding me that good food can be a simple act of self-care.
- Rich and creamy without being overwhelming.
- Sautéed mushrooms add a deep, earthy flavor that’s truly comforting.
- Ready in just about 30 minutes—great for busy weeknights.
- Fettuccine’s wide noodles hold the sauce beautifully for satisfying bites.
- Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness at the end.
Even if you’re new to cooking, this pasta is forgiving and straightforward. You don’t need fancy skills to create something that tastes like it took hours. It’s all about layering simple ingredients to build comfort and flavor that feel like home.
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Creamy Mushroom Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A rich and comforting creamy mushroom pasta made with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a luscious cream sauce tossed with fettuccine. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
12 ounces fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and hot.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender.
Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme to the mushrooms. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the mushrooms and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy mushroom sauce.
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta. Toss once more to combine.
Serve the creamy mushroom pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
FAQ
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely. Cremini mushrooms are great, but you can also try button, shiitake, or a mix for different textures and flavors.
Is there a way to lighten the sauce?
You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
What can I serve alongside this pasta?
A simple green salad or some roasted vegetables pair beautifully to add freshness and balance.
Give this creamy mushroom pasta a try tonight—you might just find your new favorite cozy dinner.
