Name: Garlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian

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If you’re seeking a dinner that’s both comfortingly familiar and a little bit magical, this Garlic Mushroom Pasta is your new best friend. With just a handful of kitchen staples — think earthy mushrooms, punchy garlic, and a swirl of Parmesan — you’ll have a bowl full of savory, aromatic noodles that bring big Italian flavors without much fuss. In half an hour, you’re pulling up a chair to a plate that’s full of rustic charm and a hit of indulgence, perfect for cozy nights or impressing company alike.

Garlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this pasta is all in the honest, humble ingredients. Every component plays a key role: the mushrooms absorb buttery goodness, the garlic infuses the whole dish, and the Parmesan pulls it all together in a glorious tangle. Here’s what you’ll gather:

Spaghetti or Fettuccine (12 ounces): Classic pasta shapes that beautifully cradle the garlicky mushroom sauce; feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free if you prefer.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a fruity backbone and helps the mushrooms brown to perfection.
Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons): Gives richness and a silky finish to both the mushrooms and the final sauce.
Cremini or White Mushrooms (1 pound, sliced): These little umami sponges soak up all the flavor and add satisfying bite; try mixing varieties for even more depth.
Garlic Cloves (6, minced): The star of the show — sharp, fragrant, and completely transformative when sautéed.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Helps to season the vegetables and bring everything into balance.
Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and rounds out the flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A subtle kick for those who love a little warmth.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, plus more for serving): The magic that adds both creaminess and a nutty bite to tie the dish together.
Pasta Water (1/2 cup, reserved): Liquid gold for loosening the sauce and ensuring every noodle is perfectly coated.
Chopped Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons): A burst of color and freshness that finishes things off.
Extra Parmesan (for serving): Because a little more cheese never hurts.

How to Make Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a rollicking boil. Toss in your spaghetti or fettuccine of choice and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, scoop out a half cup of that starchy pasta water — you’ll need this later for the silkiest sauce. Drain the rest and set the noodles aside so they don’t overcook.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

While the pasta cooks, grab your biggest skillet and warm up the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. As soon as the butter is foamy, scatter in all your sliced mushrooms. Leave them mostly undisturbed for a few minutes to get that gorgeous golden color, then give them the occasional stir. In about 8 to 10 minutes, they’ll have released their moisture and become beautifully browned and caramelized.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Spices

Turn the heat to medium and add your minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and a touch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Stir everything together for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the garlic smells irresistible but hasn’t turned brown. This stage transforms the kitchen — and the pasta — into a garlic lover’s heaven!

Step 4: Toss Pasta and Build the Sauce

Add the drained pasta right into the skillet with the mushrooms and aromatics, along with the final tablespoon of butter and the reserved pasta water. Use tongs to toss and twirl until everything’s intermingled and the sauce lightly clings to each strand. The starchy liquid will bind with the butter and create that luxe, restaurant-style coating.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Herbs

Take the skillet off the heat, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Give it all one last toss so the cheese melts and the parsley stays fresh and green. Serve immediately, with heaps of extra Parmesan at the table for those who dream cheesy dreams.

How to Serve Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Garnishes

This pasta shines with a shower of fresh, finely chopped parsley for a burst of brightness. A few extra twists of black pepper and a generous grating of Parmesan make it look and taste completely luxurious. If you like a little crunch, try a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts over the top for added texture.

Side Dishes

Garlic Mushroom Pasta is wonderfully rich, so it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Add a side of crusty bread or homemade garlic knots to mop up any bits of sauce left in the bowl — you won’t want to waste a drop!

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, twirl single servings into small nests using a carving fork, then nestle a mound of sautéed mushrooms on top for an elegant presentation. Serving it family-style on a big platter, finished with ribbons of Parmesan and parsley, is always a showstopper. Or go rustic: pile garlic mushroom pasta into shallow bowls with a wedge of lemon for guests to squeeze over just before tucking in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Garlic Mushroom Pasta, let it cool fully before transferring it to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making tomorrow’s lunch extra special.

Freezing

While you can freeze garlic mushroom pasta, the texture of both the mushrooms and noodles will change a bit. If you do freeze, make sure to use a freezer-safe container and consume within two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

To revive garlic mushroom pasta without drying it out, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or a tiny knob of butter to loosen the sauce as it warms. The microwave works too — just be sure to use medium power and stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

What kind of mushrooms work best for Garlic Mushroom Pasta?

Cremini and white mushrooms are classic, but try mixing in shiitake, oyster, or even portobello for a more complex flavor or meatier bite. A blend adds beautiful depth and looks extra special.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the butter for vegan butter or more olive oil, and use your favorite dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The pasta will still be rich, savory, and totally satisfying without any animal products.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

If you want a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese just before adding the Parmesan. This transforms the garlic mushroom pasta into an even more decadent treat.

Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes are optional, so the pasta can be as mild or as bold as you like. Leave them out for a kid-friendly meal, or double up for a little extra heat if your crowd loves spice.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The stovetop is your friend here — add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil and toss gently over low heat until warmed through. This method keeps the pasta from drying out while reviving all the flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Garlic Mushroom Pasta is a staple in so many kitchens — it’s approachable, quick to make, and tastes like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring every twirl solo, I hope this recipe becomes a joyful regular at your table. Give it a try and let those irresistible garlicky aromas sweep you off your feet!

Garlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and easy-to-make garlic mushroom pasta recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. This dish features a creamy mushroom sauce tossed with pasta and finished with Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Ingredients

Spaghetti or Fettuccine:

12 ounces

Olive Oil:

2 tablespoons

Unsalted Butter:

3 tablespoons

Mushrooms (Cremini or White):

1 pound, sliced

Garlic Cloves:

6, minced

Salt:

1/2 teaspoon

Black Pepper:

1/2 teaspoon

Red Pepper Flakes (optional):

1/4 teaspoon

Grated Parmesan Cheese:

1/2 cup

Pasta Water (reserved):

1/2 cup

Chopped Fresh Parsley:

2 tablespoons

Extra Parmesan for serving

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water, reserve pasta water, and set pasta aside.
Sauté mushrooms: Cook mushrooms in olive oil and butter until golden brown.
Add flavor: Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Combine: Toss pasta with mushrooms, butter, pasta water, Parmesan, and parsley.
Serve: Top with extra Parmesan and enjoy!