Introduction
Creamy mushroom pasta is a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce is made with mushrooms, garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese. This recipe is vegetarian and can be made vegan by using non-dairy alternatives. It is a simple and delicious way to enjoy pasta and mushrooms.
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
-
While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
-
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, until they release their moisture and are browned.
-
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Add the grated parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the mushroom sauce and toss until the pasta is coated in the sauce.
-
Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese on top.
Variations
Vegan Version
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use a vegan parmesan cheese substitute.
Add Vegetables
You can add your favorite vegetables to this recipe to make it even more nutritious. Try adding spinach, kale, or broccoli to the mushroom sauce.
Use Different Pasta
This recipe works well with any type of pasta. Try using penne or fusilli instead of spaghetti.
Add Protein
To make this dish more filling, you can add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp to the mushroom sauce.
Conclusion
Creamy mushroom pasta is a delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce is made with mushrooms, garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese. This recipe is vegetarian and can be made vegan by using non-dairy alternatives. It can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein to make it even more nutritious. Enjoy!
FAQ
Can I use any type of mushroom for Creamy Mushroom Pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of mushroom for this dish. However, we recommend using cremini or button mushrooms for the best flavor.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta that you prefer. However, we recommend using a short pasta like penne or fusilli to better hold the creamy sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the pancetta.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, omit the pancetta, and use a plant-based cream substitute.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half or whole milk. However, the sauce may not be as creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving. However, the sauce may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Can I freeze Creamy Mushroom Pasta?
We do not recommend freezing Creamy Mushroom Pasta as the sauce may separate and become grainy when reheated.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers to this dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
To prevent the sauce from curdling, make sure to add the cream slowly and stir constantly. You can also remove the pan from the heat while adding the cream and return it to low heat once the cream has been incorporated.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh. However, you will need to use less as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. A general rule of thumb is to use 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
