If you are searching for a comforting and indulgent pasta dish, this Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining tender fettuccine with a rich, velvety sauce packed full of earthy mushrooms and the perfect hint of garlic and herbs, this recipe delivers heartwarming flavors that feel like a big hug on a plate. It’s sophisticated enough to impress guests but simple enough for a cozy weeknight meal, making it a versatile staple for any pasta lover’s repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this luscious dish, you only need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each add essential flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy Parmesan to the golden mushrooms, every element plays a role in building the perfect balance of richness and earthiness.
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: Provides the ideal sturdy and silky base to soak up the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note while helping to sauté ingredients evenly.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings a smooth richness that beautifully complements the mushrooms.
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped: Offers a gentle sweetness and depth when softened.
- 4 garlic cloves minced: Infuses a fragrant aroma and slight pungency that enhances the sauce.
- 16 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms sliced: The star ingredient that delivers a savory, meaty texture and earthy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brightens flavors and balances the richness of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Contributes a herbaceous note that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional): Provides acidity and depth by deglazing the pan; can be swapped for vegetable broth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy, luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish: Adds a nutty, salty flavor that rounds out the sauce.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh pop of color and light herbal brightness as a finishing touch.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures your pasta has enough bite to stand up to the creamy sauce. Be sure to reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid will be key to achieving that perfect sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and melt butter until shimmering and combined. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook it gently for about 3 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute to release its fragrant perfume without burning it – this builds the foundational flavors of your sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Add your sliced cremini or baby bella mushrooms into the skillet, along with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Let the mushrooms cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should turn golden brown and tender, releasing their earthy juices. This step intensifies the flavor and adds a meaty texture that makes the dish satisfyingly hearty.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the dry white wine, if using, and simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce it until slightly thickened, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. If you prefer to skip wine, vegetable broth works beautifully here too. The acidity balances the richness and adds depth to your creamy sauce.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until it melts completely and the sauce thickens just a little, becoming luxuriously smooth. The cheese adds a nutty saltiness that ties all the flavors together.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Finally, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat it thoroughly in the creamy mushroom sauce. Use the reserved pasta water a bit at a time to loosen the sauce as needed, ensuring every strand is perfectly coated without being too thick or clumpy. Finish by folding in chopped fresh parsley for a burst of vibrant color and refreshing taste.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving experience, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan on top for an extra salty kick. A few fresh parsley leaves or even a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add freshness and a touch of elegance to each plate. Cracked black pepper freshly ground over the dish also enhances the aroma and flavor presence.
Side Dishes
A bright, crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette cuts nicely through the richness of the creamy mushroom fettuccine. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans complement the earthiness while adding texture. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette makes a perfect accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve this dish in shallow bowls with a delicate dusting of Parmesan and a light scattering of microgreens or edible flowers for an Instagram-worthy touch. Alternatively, twirl the fettuccine into neat nests on the plate for a refined presentation. You can also offer individual ramekins of extra sauce on the side for those who love an extra saucy bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine Recipe, cover and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify after resting, but the sauce may thicken and require gentle reheating with a splash of cream or water to restore its original creaminess.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal due to the cream sauce, which can separate when thawed. If you do choose to freeze, pack the pasta and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
When reheating your creamy mushroom fettuccine, warm it slowly over low heat in a skillet or saucepan. Add a small amount of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir often to maintain that silky, luscious texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional and holds the sauce well, you can substitute with linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne if you prefer a different shape or texture.
Is there a vegan version of this Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine Recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this vegan by swapping out the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and using a vegan Parmesan alternative. The mushrooms provide great umami, making it just as satisfying.
Can I prepare this dish without white wine?
Definitely. If you prefer not to cook with alcohol, vegetable broth is a fantastic substitute that still adds flavor complexity without overpowering the mushrooms.
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Great question! Spinach, peas, or even sautéed zucchini are wonderful additions. Simply toss them into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender.
What wine pairs best with Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully. Their acidity cuts through the creaminess and complements the mushrooms’ earthiness perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like home in every bite. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weeknight or impressing friends at dinner, it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your cooking rotation. So grab your skillet, savor those mushrooms, and dive into a plate of comforting, creamy deliciousness that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.
Print
Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine is a delicious Italian-inspired vegetarian pasta dish featuring tender cremini mushrooms in a rich, silky sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of white wine. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it combines flavors of garlic, thyme, and fresh parsley with perfectly cooked fettuccine to create a satisfying and creamy meal.
Ingredients
Paste
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 16 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms, salt, pepper, and dried thyme to the skillet. Cook for 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms turn golden and tender.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the white wine if using, and let it simmer for 2 minutes until it reduces slightly, intensifying the flavor.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy mushroom sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley over the top before serving for extra flavor and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute white wine with vegetable broth if preferred or to keep it non-alcoholic.
- For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan Parmesan cheese alternatives.
- Add fresh spinach or peas to the sauce for additional vegetables and a nutritional boost.
