There’s nothing quite like the irresistible combination of garlic, mushrooms, and creamy pasta coming together in one dish. The earthy aroma of mushrooms sautéed in butter and garlic fills the kitchen, while the creamy sauce perfectly coats every strand of pasta. This Garlic Mushroom Pasta is a quick and easy dinner that feels as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly evening.

I first made this recipe on a weeknight when I craved something indulgent but didn’t have much time to cook. Since then, it’s become my go-to for a cozy, flavorful meal that never fails to impress. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Mushroom Pasta
Get ready to fall head over heels for this creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta. It’s everything you want in a weeknight dinner – fast, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.
First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. In just 30 minutes, you can go from pantry staples to a restaurant-worthy dish, all without breaking a sweat. Perfect for busy days or when you just need a low-effort meal that still delivers big on flavor.
It’s also a one-pan wonder (besides boiling the pasta), which means fewer dishes to wash afterward. The mushrooms, garlic, and creamy sauce come together in a single skillet for maximum flavor with minimum cleanup.
Plus, it’s versatile and budget-friendly. Use whatever pasta you have on hand, add a protein like chicken or shrimp, or keep it simple for a satisfying vegetarian option. This recipe works with your preferences and pantry staples.
Finally, the flavor is simply unbeatable. The umami-rich mushrooms, garlicky goodness, and creamy sauce meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s equal parts indulgent and comforting. It’s the perfect balance of savory, rich, and satisfying.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Garlic Mushroom Pasta lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient contributes to a dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.
Pasta:
Choose a pasta shape that catches the creamy sauce well. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine are classic choices, but short shapes like penne or rigatoni also work beautifully. Cook it al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Mushrooms:
Use a mix of cremini and white button mushrooms for a blend of textures and flavors. Feel free to experiment with shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a more gourmet twist.
Garlic:
Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable for this recipe. Its bold, aromatic flavor is the backbone of the dish, complementing the mushrooms and creamy sauce perfectly.
Heavy Cream:
The rich base of the sauce, heavy cream, ensures a luxurious texture. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option, but the sauce may not be as thick and velvety.
Parmesan Cheese:
Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty depth to the sauce. Avoid pre-grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
Butter and Olive Oil:
A combination of butter and olive oil provides the ideal fat base for sautéing the mushrooms and garlic without burning.
Special Equipment:
All you need is a large skillet, a pot for boiling pasta, and a good wooden spoon for stirring. Having a microplane for grating fresh Parmesan is a bonus!
How to Make This Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Making Garlic Mushroom Pasta is straightforward, and the results are so rewarding. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a large skillet, heat a mix of butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally until golden and tender. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic to the mushrooms. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and a splash of pasta water, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, garlicky perfection!
Storage Options
This Garlic Mushroom Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for a quick meal later.
Refrigerate:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so save a bit of pasta water to loosen it when reheating.
Reheat:
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore the creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Freeze:
While not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, you can freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
- Make It Vegan: Use plant-based cream, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Boost the Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a kick of heat.
- Try Different Cheeses: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment. This Garlic Mushroom Pasta is your blank canvas for culinary creativity.
Whip up this Garlic Mushroom Pasta tonight and treat yourself to a dish that’s as comforting as it is elegant. With its creamy sauce, garlicky aroma, and tender mushrooms, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Let me know how you make it your own in the comments below!
PrintGarlic Mushroom Pasta Recipe
This garlic mushroom pasta recipe is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring fresh mushrooms, garlic, and pasta. A simple, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 300g pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 250g mushrooms (sliced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté until golden and tender.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Cook until sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss in cooked pasta, mixing well to coat with the creamy garlic mushroom sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Best served fresh but can be reheated with a splash of milk or cream
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
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