Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta: A Simple Comfort Food Delight

Quick Overview

• Recipe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Serves 4
• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce and loaded with sautéed mushrooms. This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta holds a special place in my heart; it’s a dish I often prepare on chilly evenings to warm up and unwind. With its rich flavors and silky texture, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan or gluten-free, making it a versatile option for anyone at your table.

Ingredients List

• Pasta: 12 oz penne pasta (or your choice of pasta)
• Mushrooms: 2 cups sliced cremini or button mushrooms
• Garlic: 4 cloves minced
• Cream: 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes, until they are golden brown.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the mushroom sauce until evenly coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks

• Ingredient Substitutions: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. To make it vegan, opt for coconut cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Enhance Flavor: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sauté some spinach alongside the mushrooms.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Macronutrients:
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Micronutrients:
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg

Recipe Notes

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta is not only delicious but also adaptable. Feel free to swap in other veggies like spinach or asparagus, and enjoy trying different pasta shapes.

FAQs

1. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
   • It’s best not to freeze creamy pasta dishes, as the texture may change.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter option?
   • You can use half-and-half or cashew cream for a lighter alternative.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   • Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
5. How can I reheat this pasta?
   • Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Please Give Us Your Feedback

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Recipe Card: Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• Pasta: 12 oz penne pasta
• Mushrooms: 2 cups sliced cremini or button mushrooms
• Garlic: 4 cloves minced
• Cream: 1 cup heavy cream
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup chopped

Instructions:

1. Boil pasta, drain, and set aside.
2. Sauté mushrooms in olive oil for 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in cream, cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss pasta with the sauce, heat through.
6. Serve garnished with parsley.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg

Tips and Variations:

• Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce. Store in an airtight container.

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