Easy Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Name: Easy Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 12 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Quick Meals Recipes

When I crave comfort food, I turn to this Easy Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce. It’s an indulgent yet simple dish that I can whip up in under 30 minutes. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce is a favorite in my home, and it's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering. Whether I'm cooking for myself or hosting friends, this recipe never disappoints. Plus, it's versatile enough to dress up with fresh herbs or protein if I want to take it to the next level.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:04:48.975Z

Some of the best moments in the kitchen come when I'm experimenting with flavors. When I first tried making creamy mushroom sauce, I was amazed at how quickly ordinary pasta transformed into a rich, satisfying meal. The key is to sauté the mushrooms until golden to enhance their umami flavor, which is the heart of this dish.

I remember serving this to my friends for the first time, and the compliments kept pouring in! I learned that using a splash of white wine at the end of the sauté maximizes the flavor, creating a sauce that's undeniably vibrant and delicious. It's a simple twist that makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that’s full of flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Loaded with wholesome ingredients that satisfy

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the mushrooms, which add an earthy depth and umami flavor. I prefer cremini or shiitake for their robust taste, though button mushrooms work perfectly as well. Make sure to slice them uniformly for even cooking, allowing each piece to caramelize nicely. A quick tip: if using dried mushrooms, rehydrate them in warm water for 20-30 minutes before adding them to the skillet to bring out their flavor.

The heavy cream provides that luscious, velvety texture that coats the pasta beautifully. If you want a lighter alternative, I recommend using half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk. However, keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the creaminess of the sauce slightly, so adjust the seasonings to taste.

Perfecting the Sauce

To achieve a thick, creamy sauce, it's essential to allow it to simmer after adding the heavy cream and Parmesan. This helps the cheese melt evenly and the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes to avoid it sticking to the bottom of the skillet, and look for a slight thickening; you’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. If the sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to whisk in a splash more vegetable broth to adjust the consistency.

The sautéing of onions and garlic before adding the mushrooms is crucial. This step builds a flavorful base, and cooking them until translucent (not brown) brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall dish. Remember to adjust the heat as necessary—medium heat works well, but if you notice any browning, lower the heat to prevent any bitterness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this dish is delicious as is, it can easily be elevated with a few simple additions. Spinach or kale can be tossed in just before mixing in the pasta, adding a pop of color and nutrients. For protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. I often opt for these additions when serving guests for a more complete meal, transforming a simple pasta dish into something hearty and satisfying.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the sauce separately and storing it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to restore creaminess. Just be sure to cook the pasta fresh, as it’s best served al dente for that perfect bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
12 oz mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients ready to elevate your meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Add the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, mixing until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal and feel free to share with friends!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using a mix of mushrooms like shiitake and cremini. You can also replace heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy-free version of this creamy mushroom sauce, consider using coconut milk or cashew cream in place of the heavy cream. Both will lend a rich texture while adding their unique flavors. Also, nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy, making the dish vegan-friendly.

For the pasta, you can swap regular wheat-based noodles for gluten-free options like quinoa or rice pasta. Keep in mind that gluten-free pasta can cook faster, so monitor it closely and adjust cooking times as necessary to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Storing and Freezing

Leftover creamy mushroom pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from thickening too much. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cream sauce separately from the pasta. It can last up to two months in the freezer. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove, adding cooked pasta after the sauce is heated through for best results.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

For a hint of freshness, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. The acidity will help balance the richness of the cream and provide a bright finish to the dish. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also be stirred in at the end for an aromatic touch.

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes while the sauce is simmering. Start with a pinch, tasting as you go to find your preferred spice level. This small addition can transform the creamy flavor profile and make it even more exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This sauce pairs well with any type of pasta like penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to add spinach, peas, or even cooked chicken for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.