Craving a quick, tasty meal? Look no further than Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta! This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a dish that delights your taste buds. From creamy mushrooms to rich garlic flavors, each bite is a treat. Join me as I guide you through a steps to make this satisfying dinner your new favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or fettuccine
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 12 oz (340g) cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnishing)
For this dish, choose fresh ingredients for the best taste. Spaghetti or fettuccine works well, so select what you like. I prefer fresh cremini mushrooms for their earthy flavor. Minced garlic adds a great aroma and taste.
The butter and olive oil blend creates a rich base. Dried thyme offers a lovely herbal note. Don’t forget to have sea salt and black pepper on hand. These simple seasonings enhance all the flavors. If you enjoy cheese, Parmesan adds creaminess. Lastly, fresh parsley brightens the dish and makes it look pretty.
To learn how to combine these ingredients into a delicious meal, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
– Bring salted water to a boil.
– Cook pasta until al dente and reserve pasta water.
To start, fill a large pot with water and add salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Once the water boils, add 8 oz of spaghetti or fettuccine. Follow the package instructions for cooking time. When it’s done, reserve about half a cup of the pasta water. Then, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
Sautéing the Garlic and Mushrooms
– Heat butter and olive oil.
– Sauté minced garlic until golden.
Next, take a large skillet and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat them over medium heat. When the butter melts and bubbles, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about one minute. It should smell great and turn a light golden color.
Combining Ingredients
– Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
– Season and mix in cooked pasta.
Now, gently add 12 oz of cleaned and sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet. Stir them lightly and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. They should become golden brown and tender. After that, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes. Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything with tongs until the pasta is coated in the garlic and mushroom sauce.
For extra richness, you can stir in some grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
Using fresh garlic is key. Freshly minced garlic gives a bright, bold taste. It brings the dish to life. A splash of white wine adds depth too. Just a small amount can change everything.
Cooking Tips
Mushrooms cook quickly. Avoid overcooking them for the best texture. They should be golden and tender. Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps make the sauce creamy.
Serving Suggestions
A side salad or some crusty bread pairs well. These sides add crunch and freshness to your meal. Drizzle good quality olive oil on top before serving. This small touch makes a big difference in flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Variations
One of the best parts about Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta is how easy it is to change up. You can make this dish fit your taste and needs. Here are some fun variations to try.
Vegetarian Option
If you want a vegetarian twist, skip the Parmesan cheese. Use nutritional yeast instead. It gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also add fresh spinach or kale. This makes the dish more colorful and nutritious.
Protein Additions
Want to make it heartier? Add some grilled chicken or shrimp. These proteins pair well with the garlic and mushrooms. If you prefer plant-based options, chickpeas are a great choice. They add protein and a nice texture.
Sauce Variations
Feel free to experiment with the sauce. Try using vegan butter instead of regular butter. This change makes the dish dairy-free. You can also mix in different herbs. Basil or rosemary adds new flavors that brighten the meal.
Remember, you can find the Full Recipe above if you want to try these variations. Enjoy getting creative!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store your Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to enjoy leftovers without losing flavor.
Freezing
For the best results, freeze the pasta before adding cheese. This keeps the texture nice. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently to avoid mushiness.
Reheating Tips
You can reheat the pasta in the microwave. Add a bit of water or oil to keep it moist. Another option is to sauté it in a pan. Avoid prolonged heating to maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
– Yes, gluten-free options work well. You can find many brands that taste great.
How can I make it spicier?
– Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Both options bring heat.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
– Absolutely, it stores well and can be reheated. Just keep it in an airtight container.
What wine pairs best with Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta?
– A light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements it nicely. It balances the rich flavors.
Full Recipe Reference
– For the complete recipe details, refer to the Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta recipe above.
In this post, we covered how to make a simple garlic butter mushroom pasta. You learned about the main ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. We discussed variations, storage options, and answered common questions. This dish is quick and easy, perfect for any day. Try adding your favorite proteins or herbs for a personal touch. You’ll enjoy a tasty meal that can impress anyone. Start cooking and enjoy your delicious pasta creation!
