Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz shiitake mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta, especially when I'm craving something rich and comforting. The combination of garlic and mushrooms creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings perfectly to al dente pasta. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or even impressing guests. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a dish that feels indulgent but doesn’t take all evening to prepare. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:29:35.984Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. Using fresh ingredients like garlic and shiitake mushrooms makes all the difference in flavor. I like to sauté the mushrooms until they're golden brown, which really enhances their depth and richness in the sauce.

To make the sauce creamy yet light, I use a combination of heavy cream and a splash of white wine, allowing the alcohol to cook off while infusing the dish with complexity. It’s a simple technique that makes the entire dish shine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory flavors that will impress any guest
Creamy texture that feels indulgent yet satisfying
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for any weekday dinner

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta serves a specific purpose that contributes to the overall flavor and texture. The shiitake mushrooms not only add earthiness but also a pleasant chewiness, complementing the smooth cream sauce. Opting for fresh shiitake is key; they offer a superior flavor compared to dried varieties. If you can't find shiitake, cremini or button mushrooms are good alternatives, although the taste will differ slightly.

The heavy cream is essential for achieving that luxurious texture that envelopes the pasta perfectly. For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth, but be cautious as this will alter the richness. Giving the cream a slight simmer after adding it to the pan allows it to thicken, creating a velvety mouthfeel that will cling to every strand of fettuccine.

Perfecting the Sauce

Developing the sauce requires careful attention to the simmering process. After adding the white wine, allow it to reduce for about 3-4 minutes until it cooks down and intensifies in flavor. This step is crucial; it not only heightens the overall taste but also helps to cook off some of the alcohol, leaving behind a subtle aroma that balances the richness of the cream. Ensure the heat is medium-low during this stage to prevent the cream from curdling.

When it's time to add the Parmesan cheese, grate it fresh for the best melting effect. Pre-packaged grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from incorporating smoothly into the sauce. Stir the cheese in a small handful at a time, watching for that glossy consistency to develop. If necessary, a splash of reserved pasta water can help achieve the perfect creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta:

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the sliced shiitake mushrooms, cooking until they are golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes. Then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing the pasta in the sauce to coat thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using a mixture of different mushrooms, such as cremini or button mushrooms, to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, simply add a bit of the reserved pasta water or additional cream while reheating to restore the desired consistency.

It’s best to cook the pasta just before serving, as fettuccine can become mushy if left in the sauce for too long. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to help revive the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta not only stands out as a main dish but can also be paired beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables to add brightness. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish. A glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors of the pasta wonderfully.

For a little extra flair, you could add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a burst of color and flavor. This not only elevates the dish visually but also adds nutritional value. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for heat or toss in some toasted pine nuts for added texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the fettuccine with gluten-free pasta for a suitable option that everyone can enjoy.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little added cream to maintain the sauce's consistency.

→ Can I add protein to the dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be delicious additions to this pasta dish.