What you’ll need
To create this delightful meal, here’s your ingredient list:
- 250g pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 200g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup cooking cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the cooking cream for a plant-based alternative or use gluten-free pasta to accommodate your needs.
Directions to follow
- In a large pan, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until they are soft and golden.
- Pour in the pasta and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in the cooking cream and grated Parmesan, mixing well to combine.
- Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
- Serve warm, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Creamy Garlic Butter Mushroom Parmesan Pasta is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of creative ways to enjoy it. Consider pairing it with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for added freshness. Garlic bread on the side can elevate the meal further, providing an excellent base for those creamy sauce remnants. For a protein boost, grilled chicken or toasted pine nuts can be delightful additions.
How to store
If you have leftovers (which are rare but possible), storing them is straightforward. Place any cooled pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. Reheating can be done in the microwave or over low heat on the stove; just add a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep the sauce creamy. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to a month—simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to indulge again.
Helpful cooking tips
For optimal flavor, choose fresh mushrooms and quality Parmesan cheese. If you want a richer taste, you can adjust the amount of butter or cream based on your preference. Also, keeping an eye on the pasta during the cooking process ensures it doesn’t overcook. Lastly, a splash of white wine during the sautéing step can add an extra layer of depth to the flavor.
Creative twists
There are numerous ways to put a personal spin on this recipe! Add in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and added nutrients. For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, or opt for a variety of mushrooms like Shiitake or Portobello for a more robust flavor. If you’re looking to go vegan, you can replace the cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives and the cream with coconut milk or more broth.
FAQ
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, with a total cooking time of around 20 minutes. You’ll have a delicious meal within half an hour!
Can I use fresh pasta instead of dry?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as fresh pasta generally cooks faster than dried.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Opt for gluten-free pasta, and ensure that the vegetable broth and any other added ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite of this delightful pasta recipe!
