Easy Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Name: Easy Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 250g fresh mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 200ml heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Moments

I love making this Easy Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce because it comes together so effortlessly. The creamy, savory sauce wraps around the pasta perfectly, making each bite incredibly satisfying. It's one of those recipes that feels indulgent but can be made in under 30 minutes. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with friends, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, who can resist the aroma of sautéed mushrooms blending with garlic and cream? It's comfort food at its finest!

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:17:36.256Z

When I first tried making a creamy mushroom sauce, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such rich flavors. Using a combination of fresh mushrooms and garlic, I sautéed them until golden brown, then added cream to achieve that luscious texture. One tip I discovered is to reserve a bit of the pasta water before draining the pasta; it helps to adjust the sauce consistency without losing flavor.

This dish has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, especially during busy weeknights. I often experiment with adding different herbs or a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor. It's the kind of recipe you can tailor to your taste, which is part of the fun in the kitchen!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that clings to pasta perfectly
Savory mushrooms provide deep, earthy flavor
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Pasta Water

One of the often-overlooked tips for achieving a truly impressive pasta dish is reserving pasta water. This starchy water acts as a natural thickening agent for the sauce, helping it cling beautifully to the pasta. For this recipe, be sure to save at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This tenth degree best arrives during the sauce-making stage. If you've added too much cream and your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add splashes of the reserved water until you reach the perfect consistency.

If you find yourself in a pinch without any heavy cream on hand, you can successfully substitute it with a mix of whole milk and a little cornstarch for a creamy texture. However, this will slightly alter the flavor profile, so adjust your seasonings accordingly. The rich, creamy base created by the heavy cream is what truly envelops the pasta and makes each bite divine.

Perfecting the Sautéed Mushrooms

Achieving perfectly sautéed mushrooms is a key step to elevate the flavor of this dish. When adding mushrooms to the skillet, ensure they have plenty of space to cook; overcrowding will cause them to steam instead of brown. Cook them over medium heat, and allow them to sit undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. You'll know they're ready when they've reduced in size and developed a lovely golden-brown color with crisp edges, which enhances their natural umami flavor.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different varieties of mushrooms! While cremini and button mushrooms offer great depth, using shiitake or portobello mushrooms can introduce exciting new notes. Remember to clean mushrooms gently with a damp cloth rather than rinsing them under water; excess moisture can hinder browning and lead to a soggy texture.

Ingredients for Easy Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Ingredients

300g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
250g fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
200ml heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms. You can also substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Easy Pasta With Creamy Mushroom Sauce even further, consider adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed spinach for added nutrition and flavor. These additions can turn this comforting dish into a well-rounded meal. Personally, I love pairing it with a simple side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the creamy sauce.

For a truly gourmet touch, try finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. The acidity will brighten the flavors and balance the creaminess beautifully. You might even add some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, especially if you’re a fan of a bit of spice.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (a rare feat given how delicious this dish is!), you'll be relieved to know they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over low heat to avoid the pasta becoming gummy. Adding a small splash of reserved pasta water or additional cream will help revive the sauce’s smooth texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta with mushroom sauce. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently. However, be aware that the cream may separate slightly upon freezing, so stirring in a little extra cream when reheating can help restore its velvety texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried mushrooms, but be sure to rehydrate them in warm water before cooking.

→ What pasta works best for this sauce?

Both spaghetti and fettuccine are excellent choices, but any pasta shape will work.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water or cream if needed.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp makes a great addition to this creamy pasta dish.