Garlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe

A Creamy, Savory Dish Packed with Flavor

Garlic Mushroom Pasta is a comforting, restaurant-quality dish that’s incredibly easy to make at home. This dish features tender pasta coated in a rich, garlicky mushroom sauce with a hint of creaminess, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The combination of umami-packed mushrooms, fragrant garlic, and a touch of Parmesan creates a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Rich & Creamy – The sauce is packed with flavor while remaining light.
• Customizable – Works well with different pasta types, dairy-free alternatives, and protein additions.
• Vegetarian-Friendly – A delicious meat-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

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Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, button, or shiitake), sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until they release their moisture and become golden brown.

3. Add Garlic & Seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Create the Sauce

Pour in the broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to deglaze the pan. Then, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.

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Variations

• Make it Dairy-Free – Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Add Protein – Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Boost the Flavor – Add a splash of white wine while deglazing the pan or stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
• Use Different Mushrooms – Experiment with wild mushrooms like oyster, chanterelle, or portobello.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 2–3
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.

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FAQs

How can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta, and ensure that all ingredients, including broth and Parmesan, are gluten-free.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. To thicken it, mix in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti works best, but short pasta like penne also holds the sauce well.

Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms?

Yes, but fresh, whole mushrooms tend to have better flavor and texture.

How do I prevent my mushrooms from getting soggy?

Cook them over medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan so they brown properly instead of steaming.

What can I use instead of Parmesan?

Try pecorino romano, nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option), or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can omit them if you prefer a non-spicy version.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini would be great additions.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add more Parmesan or stir in a bit of mascarpone cheese for extra richness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the mushrooms and garlic in advance to save time.

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Conclusion

Garlic Mushroom Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick dinner for yourself or serving guests, this creamy and flavorful pasta will impress every time. Try it with different variations and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

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