Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 200g pasta of your choice; 300g mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

When I first tried making Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The richness of the creamy sauce compliments the earthy flavor of the mushrooms perfectly. I love that this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy date night. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s easy to whip up, and I often find myself going back for seconds because it’s just that good!

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:36:36.784Z

As I experimented with different pasta sauces, I quickly became fascinated with how garlic transforms simple dishes into something extraordinary. In this recipe, I sauté the mushrooms and garlic to enhance their flavors, creating a base that is both savory and aromatic. One valuable tip I learned is to use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced, as it gives a much brighter flavor.

Every time I prepare this dish, I'm amazed at how one pot can create such a luxurious meal. I like to finish it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a handful of parsley for a touch of freshness. Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that hugs each piece of pasta
Earthy mushrooms that add depth and umami flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile; can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins

Mastering the Cream Sauce

The key to a successful cream sauce lies in the simmering process. When adding the heavy cream, it should be poured in gently and heated over medium-low to avoid scalding. You're aiming for a gentle simmer, where small bubbles form around the edges. This method allows the cream to thicken slightly and reduces the risk of separation, so keep an eye on it and adjust your heat as necessary.

Incorporating the Parmesan cheese gradually will help achieve a uniformly creamy sauce. Grate the cheese finely to ensure smooth melting. If you notice clumps forming, remove the pan from the heat and stir vigorously; this should help incorporate any stubborn bits. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of white wine for added depth.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

While the recipe calls for standard white mushrooms, feel free to experiment with varieties like cremini or shiitake for enhanced flavor profiles. Different mushrooms can introduce unique tastes and textures, enriching your pasta dish. When selecting mushrooms, look for firm, plump specimens without any blemishes or dark spots. Cleaning them with a damp cloth instead of water helps maintain their structure and prevents excess moisture during cooking.

It's essential to sauté the mushrooms properly to develop their natural umami flavors. As they cook, they'll release some moisture; you want to cook them until they've released most of it, turning golden brown on the edges. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If the pan gets too crowded, mushrooms can steam rather than brown, so work in batches if necessary for the best color and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your creamy garlic mushroom pasta:

Ingredients

200g pasta of your choice
300g mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to make a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese dissolves and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for another minute or two to heat through.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Your creamy garlic mushroom pasta is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute the mushrooms with spinach or zucchini for a different twist.

Variations and Customizations

If you're looking to add variety to your creamy garlic mushroom pasta, consider adding spinach or kale for some vibrant greens. These leafy vegetables will wilt nicely into the warm sauce and provide additional nutrients. For a protein-packed version, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can make delightful additions, enhancing both the flavor and heartiness of the meal.

Another delicious twist is incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts. Both ingredients add a burst of flavor and color that brightens the dish. For a spicier kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing. These small adjustments not only elevate the dish but can also make it feel fresh and unique each time you make it.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Cook the pasta as instructed, then toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Store the pasta and the sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sauce can be kept for up to three days and reheated gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to regain its creamy consistency.

When you’re ready to serve, combine the pasta and sauce in a pan over medium heat. If the sauce appears too thick after refrigeration, simply add a splash of milk or broth while stirring until you achieve the desired creaminess. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may cause the sauce to separate, resulting in a grainy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you have on hand, including gluten-free options.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs perfectly with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.