How to Make Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Creamy mushroom pasta is a beloved dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the richness of cream for an ultimate comfort food experience. This classic Italian-American dish has stood the test of time, and today it remains one of the most popular pasta recipes around.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) spaghetti or linguine
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 oz mushrooms, sliced thinly
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

To start preparing your creamy mushroom pasta, first bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta. While waiting for the water, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and begin to brown slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Then add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring frequently as you continue to cook for another couple of minutes until everything is golden brown and fragrant.

Now it's time to add your pasta. Once the water has reached a rolling boil, carefully drop in the pasta. Stir occasionally so that it doesn't stick together. Cook according to package instructions; typically this will be about 8-10 minutes depending on the type you are using.

While the pasta is cooking, pour half of the heavy cream into your mushroom mixture and simmer for another few minutes until the sauce starts thickening. Once done, remove from heat but keep warm while the pasta continues to cook. The pasta should be al dente (firm to the bite), which usually takes around 8-10 minutes.

Drain your cooked pasta, reserving about half a cup of the cooking water just in case you need it later to thin out the sauce. Toss the drained spaghetti with the creamy mushroom mixture, adding some Parmesan if desired for extra flavor and a little bit more cream if necessary to achieve that perfect consistency.

Season generously with salt and pepper before serving hot from the pan or bowl. Serve immediately alongside a side salad or garlic bread if you like. This dish is best enjoyed while fresh from the stove; it helps maintain its creamy texture better than reheating cold leftovers do.

Cooking Time

The total cooking time for this creamy mushroom pasta recipe should be around 30-45 minutes, including preparation and boiling time. However, once you get used to making it frequently, the actual cooking process can take as little as 15-20 minutes.

Number of Servings

This recipe yields approximately four servings. Feel free to adjust quantities based on personal preference or number of guests at your table.

By following these simple steps and using quality ingredients, you too can enjoy a delicious creamy mushroom pasta that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether as part of a romantic dinner for two, family mealtime, or casual get-together with friends, this dish is always a hit!