Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle

Name: Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 300g tagliatelle pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 400g mixed mushrooms, sliced (cremini and shiitake); 150ml heavy cream; 50g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle, as it combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with a rich, velvety sauce. This dish is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a treat for the eyes, with its elegant presentation. I often prepare it when I'm hosting friends or family, and it never fails to impress. The best part is how quick and easy it is to make, allowing me to enjoy more time with my loved ones without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:10:37.908Z

As I dove into creating this Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle, I wanted to combine my passion for mushrooms with a comforting pasta dish. The key is to use a mix of mushrooms to enhance the flavor profile, so I went for a blend of cremini and shiitake. Sautéing them until they're golden brings out their natural umami, and when mixed with a creamy sauce, it becomes heavenly.

I learned that the type of pasta matters a lot, too. Tagliatelle works beautifully for this dish because its flat shape holds onto the sauce better, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich earthy flavors from a blend of mushrooms
Creamy sauce that envelops each strand of pasta
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of mushrooms significantly impacts the flavor profile of your Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle. I recommend using a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms; the cremini adds a mild earthiness, while shiitake provides a deeper umami flavor. You can also swap in oyster mushrooms for a different texture or even use dried mushrooms rehydrated in warm water for a richer taste. For those who may not enjoy mushrooms, zucchini or spinach can be sautéed in their place, offering a burst of color and nutrients.

Parmesan cheese not only thickens the sauce but also enhances the overall flavor. For a vegan alternative, you can use nutritional yeast to mimic the savory qualities of cheese. If you're not a fan of heavy cream, consider substituting half-and-half or a cashew cream if you're looking for a lighter option. Be mindful that these alternatives may alter the final texture slightly, so adjust the quantity of reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Techniques for Perfect Pasta

Perfectly al dente tagliatelle is crucial for this dish. When cooking the pasta, remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. It’s typically ready between 8–10 minutes, but check the package instructions and taste a strand around the 8-minute mark. To avoid overcooking, be sure to drain it as soon as it's firm to the bite. The reserved pasta water is a brilliant secret weapon; it’s starchy and helps to marry the sauce and pasta seamlessly.

When sautéing the vegetables, make sure your pan is adequately heated before adding the olive oil. The right temperature ensures the mushrooms caramelize beautifully without releasing too much moisture. If your mushrooms end up steaming, try increasing the heat slightly and avoid crowding the pan. This will help achieve that golden-brown color and develop deeper flavors, making your dish not just enjoyable to eat but also visually appealing.

Ingredients

For the Tagliatelle

300g tagliatelle pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
400g mixed mushrooms, sliced (cremini and shiitake)
150ml heavy cream
50g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix well and serve immediately.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Once the mushrooms are cooked, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained tagliatelle to the sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy tagliatelle warm!

Enjoy your delectable dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine to the sauce.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store your Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. While the pasta can become slightly softer over time, reheating it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra cream can revitalize the creamy texture. Always stir frequently to avoid uneven heating, and be cautious not to overheat, as this may separate the sauce.

For more extended storage, consider freezing the dish. However, it's best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately to maintain their individual textures. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently, adding a bit of cream or pasta water to re-emulsify and bring the dish back to its original creamy state.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle can serve as a satisfying main course or a delightful side dish. Pair it with a simple side salad featuring mixed greens and a vinaigrette for a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta. Additionally, crusty bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce — a perfect combination to enhance your dining experience.

For a touch of elegance, try garnishing your dish with crispy fried shallots or homemade croutons to add texture and additional flavor layers. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or chives, elevating this easy dish into something truly gourmet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, while tagliatelle is recommended, fettuccine or pappardelle work well too!

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

The current recipe is already vegetarian, but you can also replace heavy cream with a plant-based alternative.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or Pecorino for a different flavor.