Garlic Mushroom Pasta

This Garlic Mushroom Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish—simple, earthy, and full of flavor. Loaded with sautéed mushrooms, plenty of garlic, and a light touch of creaminess, it’s a pasta that feels indulgent without being heavy. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner in.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 2

Tools for this recipe:

1. Garlic Press
2. Wire whisk
3. a big pot
4. Sharp knife
5. bowl
6. skillet
7. kitchen tongs
8. Microplane

Garlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe Video:

How to cook mushrooms:

Cooking mushrooms for pasta is incredibly easy, and my go-to method is a simple sauté. When done right, sautéed mushrooms add rich, deep flavor and the perfect texture to any pasta dish. Here are some key tips to ensure your mushrooms turn out beautifully every time:

1. Keep Mushrooms Dry

Before you even think about cooking, make sure your mushrooms are dry. Instead of rinsing them under water, which causes them to absorb moisture like a sponge, gently wipe off any dirt with a lightly damp paper towel. Wet mushrooms won’t brown properly and can become rubbery instead of tender and flavorful.

2. Slice Them Properly

Thinly sliced mushrooms can shrink too much during cooking, losing their texture and bite. Instead:

• White button and baby bella mushrooms: Slice about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick to maintain their shape and meaty texture.
• Portobello mushrooms: Chop them into bite-sized chunks, but avoid dicing them too finely, as they’ll disappear into the pan.

3. The Right Fat Combination

A mix of extra virgin olive oil and a little butter creates the best balance of flavor and texture. In my recipe, I start with:

• 1/3 cup of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of butter

This helps sauté 1.5 pounds of mushrooms along with onions and garlic. If you use only butter, the mushrooms will soak it up too quickly, leaving some dry. Instead, start with your initial fat, let the mushrooms cook down, and add another drizzle of olive oil as needed.

4. Season at the Right Time

After tossing the mushrooms in the hot pan and letting them cook briefly, season with kosher salt. Salt draws out moisture, helping the mushrooms develop a rich, savory flavor. This is also the best time to add additional seasonings like black pepper, rosemary, or your favorite herbs.

Follow these simple techniques, and you’ll have perfectly sautéed mushrooms every time—deeply flavorful, golden brown, and packed with delicious umami richness. Whether tossed into pasta, layered over a steak, or stirred into risotto, these mushrooms will never disappoint.

Ingredients:

1. 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite)
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4. 5 garlic cloves, minced
5. 16 oz mushrooms, sliced
6. 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
7. 1/4 cup white wine (or vegetable broth)
8. 1/2 cup heavy cream
9. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10. Salt and pepper, to taste
11. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a big pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, toss in your pasta and cook it as instructed on the package until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Don’t forget to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest and setting it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown and have released their moisture. Add a small amount of salt and pepper for seasoning.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Lower the heat to medium and incorporate the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet. If desired, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic becomes aromatic without turning brown.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine (or broth), scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly, enhancing the sauce’s depth of flavor.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to warm through and thicken slightly. If the sauce appears to be too thick, just add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

Step 6: Toss in the Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy garlic mushroom sauce. If necessary, tweak the consistency by adding a bit more pasta water.

Step 7: Add Parmesan and Season

Stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce, which adds a rich and savory touch. Add more salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if you like.

Tips:

• Switch Up the Mushrooms: Try a mix of wild mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, or porcini for an extra earthy flavor.
• Make It Vegan: Swap the butter for olive oil, the cream for a plant-based alternative, and the Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute.
• Add Protein: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu for a more filling meal.
• Leftovers: To keep any leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to freshen it up.

This Garlic Mushroom Pasta is a quick and delicious way to satisfy your pasta cravings while keeping it simple and flavorful. A perfect go-to recipe that never disappoints.

Substitute Ingredients

Here are some great substitute ingredients for the Garlic Mushroom Pasta that can tweak the recipe based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences:

Pasta:

• Substitutes: Whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or spaghetti squash.
• Why: To cater to dietary needs like gluten-free or low-carb.

Mushrooms:

• Substitutes: Portobello, shiitake, oyster, or baby bella mushrooms. You can also use frozen mushrooms or even canned mushrooms (drained and rinsed) if fresh isn’t available.
• Why: Different varieties offer a range of textures and flavors, from mild to earthy.

White Wine:

• Substitutes: Vegetable broth, chicken broth, or a splash of apple cider vinegar diluted with water.
• Why: To add depth of flavor without alcohol, or if you don’t have wine on hand.

Heavy Cream:

• Substitutes: Half-and-half, whole milk (for a lighter option), coconut milk (for a dairy-free version), or cashew cream.
• Why: To adjust the creaminess level or accommodate dairy-free diets.

Parmesan Cheese:

• Substitutes: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, nutritional yeast (for a vegan option), or a vegan Parmesan alternative.
• Why: To keep the cheesy, umami flavor while adjusting to dietary restrictions.

Butter:

• Substitutes: Olive oil, vegan butter, or ghee.
• Why: To adjust for dairy-free needs or to add a different type of fat.

Olive Oil:

• Substitutes: Avocado oil, sunflower oil, or grapeseed oil.
• Why: For a neutral-flavored oil or one with a higher smoke point.

Red Pepper Flakes:

• Substitutes: Black pepper, a pinch of cayenne, or omit entirely for a milder dish.
• Why: To control the level of heat or adjust based on preference.

Fresh Parsley:

• Substitutes: Fresh basil, chives, thyme, or even a handful of baby spinach.
• Why: To add a pop of fresh, green flavor that suits the dish.

Garlic:

• Substitutes: Garlic powder, roasted garlic, or shallots.
• Why: To maintain the garlicky taste, though the intensity and texture will vary.

Feel free to mix and match these substitutes based on what you like or what’s in your pantry. The versatility of this pasta recipe makes it adaptable for various tastes and dietary needs.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Garlic Mushroom Pasta Health Benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Mushrooms contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and support overall health.
2. Boosts Immunity: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, helping to ward off infections and colds.
3. Supports Heart Health: Olive oil contains healthy fats that support heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels.
4. Good Source of Fiber: Mushrooms and pasta provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining healthy gut function.
5. Contains Vitamin D: Mushrooms are a natural source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function.
6. Supports Bone Health: Parmesan cheese and cream provide calcium, crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
7. Promotes Healthy Skin: Antioxidants from mushrooms and vitamins from parsley help maintain healthy, glowing skin.
8. May Help Lower Blood Pressure: Garlic is known to help relax blood vessels, potentially reducing blood pressure.
9. Provides Quick Energy: Pasta is a great source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy to fuel your day.
10. Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable for various dietary needs, making it suitable for a range of preferences.
11. Storage Instructions
12. Refrigeration: Keep your leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three days.
13. Freezing: Not recommended as the cream sauce may separate, affecting the texture upon reheating.

Reheat & Reuse Instructions:

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat. To make the sauce a bit thinner while it warms up, stir in some cream, broth, or water.
• Microwave: To heat individual servings, place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a lid or a damp paper towel. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.

Reuse Ideas:

• Pasta Bake: Transfer leftovers to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly for a quick pasta bake.
• Soup Addition: Chop up leftover pasta and add it to a creamy soup for added texture and flavor.
• Frittata: Mix leftover pasta into beaten eggs with some extra veggies and cheese, and bake for a delicious frittata.

This Garlic Mushroom Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy its rich, earthy flavors and simple, satisfying ingredients.

FAQ’s

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