Perfect Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare yet full of rich flavors? If so, this Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is the perfect choice! Whether you're hosting a small dinner party or just enjoying a meal at home, this recipe will surely satisfy everyone's taste buds. Let’s dive into how simple and delicious it can be to make this creamy pasta dish.

The base of this recipe includes ingredients that are easily accessible in most homes. You’ll need a variety of mushrooms (such as button or cremini), garlic, olive oil, white wine, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and of course, your favorite pasta. This meal is perfect for two servings but can be easily doubled based on the number of guests you have.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes from start to finish

• Preparation time: About 15 minutes
• Cooking pasta and sauce: Around 20 minutes total cooking time for two servings

Serving Size: This recipe yields about 4 cups of pasta, enough to serve approximately 2-3 people. You can always adjust the quantities according to your family size.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Mushrooms (about 1 pound)
• Garlic (3 cloves), minced
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
• White wine (½ cup)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Pasta of your choice (about 8 ounces or as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation: Start by preparing the mushrooms. Clean them well under running water, ensuring they are free from dirt and grit. Slice the mushrooms thinly using a sharp knife. Mince the garlic cloves.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it is hot, toss in the sliced mushrooms along with minced garlic. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Cook until the mushrooms start to brown and release their liquid – about 5-7 minutes.

While the mushrooms are cooking, pour in the white wine. Allow it to cook off most of its alcohol content for another few minutes before adding heavy cream. The creamy sauce should thicken slightly over medium heat as you stir continuously. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference; taste and adjust if necessary.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente – usually around 8-10 minutes based on the type of pasta used. Drain thoroughly once done, reserving some of the cooking liquid for later use in adjusting the consistency of your sauce.

Once the mushrooms are fully cooked and creamy sauce has formed, gently fold in the drained pasta into the skillet. Toss until each noodle is evenly coated with the rich mushroom cream sauce. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.

Optional Enhancements

1. Bacon: For extra flavor, you can fry some slices of pancetta or bacon until crispy and add it to the dish for a smoky depth.
2. Gremolata: To give your pasta an extra burst of freshness at the end, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, lemon zest, and olive oil.

Tips for Success

To ensure perfect results:- Always use fresh ingredients whenever possible.- Let the mushrooms sweat in their own juices rather than adding too much water.- Taste early and often; adjust seasoning if needed to avoid over-salting or under-seasoning.

This rich and flavorful pasta dish is not only a delightful meal but also an excellent option for those looking to impress friends with their culinary skills. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and enjoy the creamy satisfaction of every bite!

To conclude, Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways—whether you are having guests over for an intimate dinner or just craving comfort food after a long day. It's easy to prepare yet rich in taste, making it one of the go-to recipes whenever you want something simple and satisfying. Enjoy your meal!