Creamy Mushroom Pappardelle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. The wide, silky noodles soak up every bit of the creamy, garlicky mushroom sauce. It’s a vegetarian meal that feels indulgent and satisfying without being too heavy. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something a little special.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pappardelle pasta
• Mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster)
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic
• Shallot or onion
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh thyme or parsley
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: white wine or vegetable broth

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chopped shallots (or onion) and cook until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Cook the Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Deglaze (Optional): Pour in a splash of white wine or vegetable broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Let it reduce slightly.
5. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Add grated Parmesan and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pappardelle to the sauce. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in sautéed chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for extra heartiness.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, cream, and Parmesan to make a dairy-free version.
• Truffle Twist: Add a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet flavor upgrade.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
• Lemon Zest: Stir in a little lemon zest for a bright contrast to the rich sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, but the sauce may thicken more.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, tagliatelle or fettuccine are great substitutes if you don’t have pappardelle.

What mushrooms work best for this recipe?

A mix of cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms adds depth, but even just cremini or white mushrooms will work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh for ideal texture.

Is heavy cream necessary?

Heavy cream provides the richest result, but you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if needed.

Can I freeze Creamy Mushroom Pappardelle?

It’s not recommended. Cream sauces can separate when frozen and thawed.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and mushrooms.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or add a bit more Parmesan for extra body.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach or peas can be stirred in near the end of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Why is my sauce too thick or too thin?

If too thick, add pasta water or cream. If too thin, simmer longer or add more cheese.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and double-check all ingredients for hidden gluten.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Pappardelle is a luxurious yet simple pasta dish that’s loaded with earthy, savory flavor. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s an easy way to elevate your weeknight meals or impress guests. Whether served as a main or paired with a side salad and crusty bread, this dish is pure comfort in every bite.

Creamy Mushroom Pappardelle

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Creamy Mushroom Pappardelle is a rich and comforting pasta dish made with wide ribbons of pappardelle tossed in a velvety sauce of mixed mushrooms, garlic, herbs, cream, and Parmesan. Perfect for a cozy dinner or elegant entertaining.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 oz pappardelle pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot (or 1/2 small onion), finely chopped
• 12 oz mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster), sliced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/4 cup white wine or vegetable broth (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pappardelle until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chopped shallot and sauté until translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and become golden brown, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Optional: Deglaze the pan with white wine or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits. Let it reduce for 1–2 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan and stir until smooth.
6. Add cooked pappardelle and toss gently to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Use a mix of mushrooms for deeper flavor, but cremini or white mushrooms also work well.
• Don’t skip the pasta water—it helps emulsify the sauce and improve texture.
• For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Add spinach or peas for color and extra nutrients.
• Truffle oil makes a luxurious finishing touch.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg