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: 300g fettuccine pasta; 250g cremini mushrooms, sliced; 250g shiitake mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I love making Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta for dinner because it feels both indulgent and comforting. The combination of earthy mushrooms and rich garlic cream creates a dish that warms the soul and delights the palate. I often whip this up on busy weeknights when I crave something quick yet satisfying. It takes only a few ingredients and about 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both family meals and cozy date nights. Let me show you how to make this deliciously creamy pasta!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-08T09:00:37.334Z

Creating this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta was a delightful journey into flavor. I experimented with different types of mushrooms, and found that a mix of cremini and shiitake offered the best depth of taste. The garlic creates a wonderful aroma as it simmers, and I’ve learned to add a splash of white wine for a bit of acidity to balance the creaminess. Trust me, it’s a game changer!

Presentation is key when it comes to this dish. I love garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta beautifully, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. You can also customize it by adding spinach or chicken for extra nutrition and heartiness. Enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that permeates the creamy sauce
Earthy mushrooms add depth and heartiness
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms elevates the flavor profile of this dish significantly. Cremini mushrooms provide a mild earthiness, while shiitake mushrooms bring a deep umami richness. When sautéing, the mushrooms should be cooked until they are golden brown, which typically takes 5–7 minutes over medium heat. This caramelization not only enhances their natural flavors but also adds a delightful texture to the pasta.

If you’re unable to find shiitake mushrooms, consider using baby bella or even portobello slices for a different yet satisfying result. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust cooking times slightly if you choose larger mushroom varieties to ensure they are tender and properly browned.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The sauce's consistency is key for achieving that creamy, luscious quality. After adding the heavy cream, let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes—this allows it to reduce slightly and thicken without separating. A good tip is to stir often during this process to promote even cooking and to prevent the cream from scorching.

Incorporating the Parmesan cheese should be done off the heat to avoid clumping. Grating your Parmesan yourself from a block will yield a fresher, creamier sauce compared to pre-grated options, which often contain anti-caking agents. If the sauce ever becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

300g fettuccine pasta
250g cremini mushrooms, sliced
250g shiitake mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy garlic mushroom pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced cremini and shiitake mushrooms. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until they are golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Create the Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the mushroom sauce. Mix well and if the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms just before adding the cream. This enhances the flavor wonderfully!

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, enhancing the dining experience. If you want to add a touch of protein, consider serving grilled chicken or shrimp on top.

For a gourmet touch, finish the pasta with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to add a spicy kick. These toppings will enhance the depth of flavor without overwhelming the creamy garlic sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to leave it slightly undercooked, as reheating will continue to cook the sauce. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it over low heat and add a splash of extra heavy cream or reserved pasta water to bring it back to life.

If you plan to store leftovers, it’s best to keep the pasta and sauce separate as the noodles can absorb too much moisture and become mushy. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and gently reheat on the stove. If you want to freeze it for longer storage, consider freezing the sauce alone and preparing fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape, but fettuccine holds the sauce beautifully.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes! This dish is entirely vegetarian as it uses no meat. You can enhance it with more veggies like spinach or roasted bell peppers.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to serve.

→ How can I make the sauce lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version of the sauce.