If you adore comforting, flavorful dishes that come together effortlessly, then the Garlic Mushroom Pasta is definitely one to add to your weekly rotation. This creamy, garlicky delight combines tender mushrooms with a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends with a simple but elegant meal, this Garlic Mushroom Pasta never fails to impress with its beatiful balance of rich, earthy flavors and silky textures.

Garlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this dish shine. Each one plays a vital role, from the aromatic garlic that gives the dish its signature punch to the heavy cream that creates a luxuriously smooth sauce. The mushrooms add earthiness and texture, while the Parmesan cheese lends a nutty, savory depth.

12 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine): Choose your favorite type, as it holds the sauce beautifully without overpowering the flavors.
3 tablespoons olive oil: A quality olive oil ensures a fragrant base for sautéing the garlic and mushrooms.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for that bold, aromatic burst.
8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Button or cremini mushrooms work wonderfully, adding a meaty texture and umami flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: This provides a rich, silky consistency that coats every strand of pasta lovingly.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts perfectly, enhancing the savory notes.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and boosts the overall taste.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle, warming spice to complement the creaminess.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): The parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh, slightly peppery finish.

How to Make Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Adding the right amount of salt enhances the pasta’s flavor from within. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which means firm to the bite. Don’t forget to scoop out a cup of pasta water before draining — this starchy water is a secret weapon to adjust your sauce’s consistency perfectly later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about one minute. The key here is to avoid burning the garlic, so keep an eye on the pan. This step creates a flavorful foundation that will perfume the entire dish.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the garlic. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become caramelized and tender. This process draws out their moisture and amplifies their earthy, savory qualities which are essential in this Garlic Mushroom Pasta.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together to combine. Allow the cream to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly thickens. This creates a lush sauce that clings lovingly to the pasta and mushrooms.

Step 5: Toss Pasta in the Sauce

Drain your cooked pasta and transfer it directly to the skillet with the cream and mushrooms. Toss it thoroughly so every strand is coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add your reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce achieves a silky, smooth consistency that’s not too heavy.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully and integrates into the sauce, creating that indulgent creaminess that defines the Garlic Mushroom Pasta. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Step 7: Ready to Serve

Your Garlic Mushroom Pasta is now ready to enjoy. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note, then serve immediately while it’s warm and comforting.

How to Serve Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top brightens the dish visually and adds a mild, fresh flavor that balances the richness. For an extra flair, a little grated extra Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is also an excellent choice, perfect for mopping up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dinner party, plate the pasta in individual shallow bowls, making a neat nest with a fork. Garnish with a sprig of parsley and a dusting of Parmesan. You can even add a small handful of toasted pine nuts or chili flakes for added texture or spice. The creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta becomes a real showstopper when served with a sprinkle of edible flowers or microgreens.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Mushroom Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken a bit upon chilling, so it’s best to reheat gently and add a splash of water or cream to restore the perfect texture.

Freezing

While pasta with cream sauces generally doesn’t freeze as well as other dishes, you can freeze the components separately. Cooked pasta and mushroom cream sauce can be frozen but may change in texture. For best results, freeze the sauce alone and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Reheating

When reheating Garlic Mushroom Pasta, use low heat to prevent curdling. Warm the dish slowly in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a little extra cream or pasta water helps bring back that smooth, luscious consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Absolutely! Cremini, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms work wonderfully and bring unique textures and flavors. Feel free to experiment depending on what you have on hand.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Garlic Mushroom Pasta is vegetarian-friendly as long as your Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet. Check the label or use a vegetarian alternative if strictly following a vegetarian diet.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What type of pasta works best?

Both spaghetti and fettuccine are excellent since their shapes catch and hold onto the creamy sauce nicely. You can also try penne or linguine if you prefer.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

Grilled chicken, sautéed tofu, or crispy pancetta are great options to add extra protein. Adding them turns this pasta into a more substantial meal.

Final Thoughts

Preparing this Garlic Mushroom Pasta is like giving yourself a warm, delicious hug on a plate. Its simplicity, combined with rich flavors and creamy textures, makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I hope you’ll whip up this dish soon and savor every bite as much as I do—trust me, once you try it, it becomes a beloved classic for all kinds of occasions.

Garlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 8 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and flavorful garlic mushroom pasta combining tender mushrooms sautéed in garlic and olive oil with a rich Parmesan-infused cream sauce, served over your choice of spaghetti or fettuccine. Perfect for a comforting vegetarian dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)

Sauce

3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are browned and softened.
Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Season and Combine: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the pasta is fully coated.
Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.

Notes

Use fresh mushrooms like cremini or button mushrooms for best flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
If you prefer a vegan version, use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan alternatives.
Reserve pasta water is important to adjust the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
Totally optional but adding crushed red pepper flakes can give a nice kick.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: Italian