Name: Cozy Mushroom Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine); Salt (for pasta water); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or white button); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

This cozy pasta dinner is perfect for winding down after the holidays. Featuring tender mushrooms in a rich, creamy sauce, it comes together quickly for a comforting meal that feels special without the fuss.

A white bowl holds a neat pile of creamy fettuccine pasta, topped with sliced sautéed mushrooms that have a golden-brown color and a slightly glossy texture from the sauce. The pasta strands are smooth and coated evenly with a light cream sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and soft pink roses are blurred in the background, adding a gentle touch to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
Salt (for pasta water)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or white button)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and flavorful, about 6–8 minutes.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning, until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream with the mushrooms and garlic. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the mushroom cream sauce. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce consistency.
Step 6: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of mushrooms like shiitake and portobello for deeper flavor.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a bright finish.
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Include cooked chicken or crispy bacon for added protein.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a simple serving of pasta. The pasta is light yellow and looks soft, twirled neatly in the center of the plate. On top, there is a layer of cooked mushrooms in a light brown color, spread evenly. The mushrooms look tender and slightly glossy from some sauce. In the background, there are soft pink roses adding a gentle touch to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?

Yes, but rehydrate dried mushrooms in warm water before cooking. Keep the soaking liquid to add more mushroom flavor to the sauce.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

It is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing may change the texture of the cream sauce and pasta, but you can freeze it if needed. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.