There's nothing quite like the savory aroma of garlic and mushrooms sizzling together, filling your kitchen with the promise of a delicious, comforting meal. This creamy garlic mushroom pasta is a weeknight hero, delivering bold flavors with minimal effort and time.
I first created this dish on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty but didn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, this recipe has become a go-to in my household for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal. Let’s dive in and see why this pasta is bound to become your favorite too.
Why You'll Love This Garlic Mushroom Pasta
Get ready to discover your new favorite pasta recipe! Creamy, garlicky, and packed with umami, this dish is as easy to love as it is to make.
First, it’s incredibly quick to whip up. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.
This pasta is also budget-friendly, relying on simple ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, and pasta to create a dish that feels luxurious without breaking the bank.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the flavors or add your favorite proteins and vegetables to make it your own.
And finally, it’s a guaranteed hit with all ages. The creamy sauce and tender mushrooms have a universal appeal that even picky eaters can’t resist. Ready to get started? Let’s talk ingredients.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this garlic mushroom pasta lies in its fresh, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The mushrooms are the star of this dish. I recommend using a mix of cremini and button mushrooms for a balance of earthy and mild flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, shiitake or oyster mushrooms add an extra depth of flavor.
Garlic is essential, infusing the entire dish with its rich, aromatic flavor. Don’t skimp here—freshly minced garlic works best for maximum impact.
The pasta you choose matters too. Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, but feel free to use what you have on hand. Penne and fettuccine also work beautifully.
For the sauce, heavy cream creates a luscious texture, while a bit of vegetable broth adds a subtle savory undertone. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce may not be as thick.
Finally, a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese ties everything together, adding a nutty richness to the dish. Freshly grated is best for melting seamlessly into the sauce. You’ll also need a good-quality olive oil and some fresh parsley for garnish to brighten up the flavors.
How to Make This Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Creating this creamy garlic mushroom pasta is straightforward and satisfying. Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting dish to life.
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid will help bring your sauce together later.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it warm up until shimmering. Toss in your sliced mushrooms, spreading them out in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden-brown sear before stirring.
Once the mushrooms are beautifully caramelized, add your minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance without burning.
Reduce the heat slightly and pour in the vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to concentrate the flavors, then add the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat every strand in the luscious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Finish the dish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a handful of freshly chopped parsley. Give everything one final toss before serving.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this garlic mushroom pasta stores beautifully. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Stir gently until heated through.
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze it for longer storage. Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described above.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to customize your garlic mushroom pasta:
- Add protein: Sautéed chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can make this dish heartier and more filling. Prepare them separately and toss them in with the pasta at the end.
- Boost the veggies: Spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes are excellent additions. Simply stir them into the sauce just before adding the pasta.
- Try different cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, Pecorino Romano or Gruyère would bring unique flavors to the sauce.
- Experiment with spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick, while thyme or rosemary can enhance the earthy notes of the mushrooms.
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based cream and cheese substitutes, along with nutritional yeast for added depth. Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream for a slightly sweet twist.
With so many ways to make it your own, this garlic mushroom pasta is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Enjoy experimenting and creating new variations that suit your taste!
PrintGarlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Indulge in this creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta recipe featuring fresh garlic, sautéed mushrooms, and a luscious sauce. A perfect combination of flavors, ready in no time for a satisfying dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 300g pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 200g mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain the rest.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and tender.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese, black pepper, salt, and red chili flakes. Mix well until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use your favorite pasta shape for versatility.
- For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or shrimp.
- Adjust seasonings to taste and skip red chili flakes for a mild version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
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