Mushroom Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25–30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.

• Versatile: Customise with your favourite mushrooms or add-ins like spinach or protein.

• Rich Flavour: Combines the umami of mushrooms with aromatic herbs and Parmesan.

• One-Pot Option: Minimal cleanup with the possibility of cooking everything in a single pot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (e.g., pappardelle, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

• Mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster), sliced

• Olive oil

• Unsalted butter

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Shallots, finely chopped

• Fresh thyme or rosemary

• Dry white wine or vegetable broth

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Fresh lemon juice

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook without stirring for 3–5 minutes until browned on one side. Stir and cook for another 3–5 minutes until golden brown.

3. Add Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, minced garlic, chopped shallots, and fresh herbs to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the mushroom mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the desired sauce consistency.

6. Finish the Dish: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes

• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Version: Add ½ cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche along with the Parmesan for a richer sauce.

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and omit the Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and shallots.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

How can I prevent the mushrooms from becoming soggy?

Avoid overcrowding the skillet when sautéing mushrooms. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly instead of steaming.

Can I use dried mushrooms?

Yes, rehydrate dried mushrooms in warm water for about 20 minutes, then drain and slice before using. They add a deep, concentrated flavour to the dish.

What type of pasta works best?

Long, flat noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine are ideal as they hold the sauce well, but any pasta shape can be used based on preference.

Is it necessary to use wine in the recipe?

No, you can substitute white wine with vegetable broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

Incorporate heavy cream, crème fraîche, or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to achieve a creamier texture.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely. Spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions and enhance the nutritional value.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, like broth and cheese, are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the mushroom sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the pasta just before serving and combine with the reheated sauce.

What's the best way to clean mushrooms?

Wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel to remove dirt. Avoid soaking them in water as they can absorb moisture and become soggy.

Can I freeze mushroom pasta?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the mushrooms and pasta may change upon thawing.

Conclusion

Mushroom pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich, savoury flavours. Its versatility allows for numerous adaptations to suit dietary preferences and available ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers a satisfying meal that's sure to impress.