One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti; 2 cups sliced mushrooms; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Daily Cooking

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I often look for something quick yet satisfying, and this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta hits the mark perfectly! The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a comforting meal that the whole family loves. Cooking the pasta in the creamy sauce ensures it absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a rich and creamy dish that feels indulgent yet effortless.

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:49:35.556Z

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta has been a delightful addition to my repertoire. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; the aroma of garlic and sautéed mushrooms filled my kitchen, making it a feast for all senses! It’s incredible how a few simple ingredients can create such depth in flavor.

One key element I’ve discovered is to allow the mushrooms to caramelize properly before adding the cream. This step enhances the umami flavor and gives the dish a more robust character. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this little trick!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops each pasta strand
Mushrooms add a savory depth that's irresistible
One pot means easy cleanup!

The Importance of One-Pot Cooking

One-pot cooking is not only about convenience but also about flavor development. When all the ingredients cook together in the same pot, they share their flavors, creating a rich, cohesive taste profile. This method keeps the pasta tender and allows it to absorb the savory notes from the sautéed mushrooms and aromatics, giving each bite depth. It's efficient and minimizes the fuss of multiple dishes, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners.

This approach also allows for a creamier texture as the residual starch from the pasta helps thicken the sauce. If you notice the sauce is too thick toward the end of cooking, simply stir in a bit more broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. The simplicity of one pot means less time spent cleaning up afterward, giving you more time to enjoy your meal with family or friends.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Mushrooms are the star in this dish, so selecting the right type can enhance the overall flavor significantly. While button mushrooms are a common choice, I often prefer a mix of cremini or shiitake for their earthier profiles. These varieties not only add depth but also retain their texture throughout cooking, ensuring you have hearty pieces in each bite. If you’re looking for an umami boost, consider adding dried porcini mushrooms; just rehydrate them in warm water and chop them before incorporation.

Another tip is to avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the mushrooms. This can cause them to steam instead of caramelize, leaving them chewy instead of golden and flavorful. I recommend cooking in batches if you're making a larger volume and definitely season them well with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the base up to the point before adding the cream, allowing you to keep the dish fresher for longer. Store the cooked pasta without the cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the pasta as needed before stirring in the cream.

If you want to freeze the dish, consider omitting the cream entirely. Freezing the pasta in its initial state will maintain its texture better. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating and add fresh cream just before serving to recreate that indulgent creaminess. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal even on the busiest of nights with minimal effort!

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta

8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to caramelize and release their liquid. Season with salt and pepper.

Add the Pasta and Broth

Stir in the fettuccine or spaghetti, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Cream

Once the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms. Also, feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or protein, like spinach or grilled chicken.

Perfect Pairings

To round out your meal, consider serving this creamy pasta with a crisp side salad. A light arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette contrasts nicely with the rich pasta, adding freshness to your plate. Additionally, garlic bread is a delightful companion; its crispy texture complements the creamy sauce, making every bite even more enjoyable.

For a heartier option, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be added on top, providing protein that elevates this dish further. Simply season and cook these proteins in a separate pan while your pasta simmers; when plating, top the pasta with your choice of protein for a complete meal. The versatility of this recipe opens up numerous pairing possibilities.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Spinach or kale can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost and vibrant color. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan right before serving can also introduce a cheesy richness that pairs beautifully with the cream.

Looking to make this recipe vegan? Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a blend of silken tofu and vegetable broth, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also replace the fettuccine or spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a suitable alternative. This adaptability makes the dish accessible to various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work, just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would make excellent additions for a heartier meal.