Savor the rich flavors of Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta! Discover the perfect blend of garlic, mushrooms, and creamy sauce for an irresistible comfort meal.
Indulge in Comfort: Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta Delight
If you're looking for a comforting dish that combines simple ingredients for a burst of flavor, our Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta is exactly what you need. This pasta is creamy, garlicky, and filled with the earthy richness of mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dish for friends and family, it’s a recipe that transforms basic pantry ingredients into culinary bliss. Let's dive into making this irresistible dish!
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) of your favorite pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 250g (9 oz) of mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms), sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: freshly grated lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and set aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms: Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden-brown and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt to help the mushrooms release their liquids.
Add Garlic and Herbs: Once the mushrooms are nicely browned, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Incorporate the Cream: Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously to ensure the cream integrates smoothly with the broth mixture. Allow the sauce to cook and thicken for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Meld Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat the noodles with the creamy mushroom sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
Finish with Cheese and Zest: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well-incorporated into the sauce. Add the lemon zest and mix well for a refreshing undertone that enhances the creaminess.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley and additional lemon zest if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta is a match made in heaven with its rich and velvety sauce paired beautifully with the earthiness of mushrooms. It’s the epitome of comfort food, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you're enjoying the pasta alone or sharing a meal with loved ones, this dish promises to tantalize the senses and nourish the soul. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!