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 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 12 oz mushrooms, sliced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Classics

I absolutely love this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta because it combines convenience with incredible flavor. In just a short time, I can whipped up a luscious, creamy dish that’s bursting with umami and savory goodness. The fact that it all cooks together in one pot means less cleanup, which is always a plus in my kitchen. Trust me, this recipe has become a favorite in our household – perfect for busy weekdays or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:05:35.532Z

When I first tried making a one-pot pasta, I was amazed by how simple and delicious it could be. I decided to make it creamy by adding a rich blend of mushrooms and fresh herbs. It creates such a comforting dish that warms the soul! The key I learned is to sauté the mushrooms well to develop their flavor before adding the pasta and liquids.

This cooking method ensures that everything absorbs the flavors beautifully, giving each bite a delicious combination of creaminess and earthiness. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies to our diet without even realizing it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich creamy texture that envelops each noodle
Savory mushroom flavor with a touch of garlic
Convenient one-pot meal for easy cleanup

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

The flavor of this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta hinges significantly on the quality of mushrooms you choose. Opting for fresh, high-quality mushrooms like cremini or shiitake instead of pre-packaged or canned varieties can elevate the dish. Fresh mushrooms offer a deeper, earthier flavor that melds beautifully with the cream. Sauté them until they're golden and slightly crisp around the edges for an ideal texture and taste, enhancing the umami profile of the sauce.

Using a full-fat heavy cream is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture that envelops the pasta. Skim milk or low-fat cream alternatives won't provide the same luxurious mouthfeel. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk, but remember that the overall creaminess will be reduced.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the onions and mushrooms, maintaining a medium heat is essential. A too-low setting may cause the vegetables to steam rather than brown, while high heat could lead to unwanted browning or burning. Stirring frequently for about five minutes until the mushrooms are deeply golden not only improves flavor but also adds an appealing texture to the finished dish.

As the pasta cooks in the pot, it's important to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together. The starch released by the cooking pasta will also thicken the sauce naturally, so avoid adding additional thickeners. Make sure to taste the pasta at the 10-minute mark to ensure it's al dente, as timings can vary slightly based on the brand and thickness of your chosen noodle.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish serves beautifully as a main course, but it can also be paired with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For added protein, consider tossing in some cooked chicken or sautéed shrimp just before serving. This gives the dish a heartier finish and makes it more filling, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

For a twist on flavors, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and mushrooms. This addition introduces a subtle acidity that balances the creaminess of the sauce. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the dish, making it more refreshing without overpowering the rich flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
12 oz mushrooms, sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Make sure to have your ingredients measured and ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta:

Sauté the base

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are browned and soft, about 5 minutes.

Cook the pasta

Add the fettuccine, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and dried thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.

Finalize and serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Now you're ready to enjoy a delicious plate of creamy mushroom pasta!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, feel free to add a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms. This will add a nice depth to the dish. You can also substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter version, or to make it dairy-free.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta is an excellent make-ahead option, as the flavors deepen when allowed to sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Prepare the dish fully and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or additional cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

If you want to freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container. It's recommended to consume frozen pasta within 1-2 months for the best quality. When thawing, move it to the refrigerator overnight, then reheat slowly on the stove for optimal texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when preparing creamy pasta dishes is ending up with a sauce that is too thick or clumpy. If this happens, don’t despair! Simply add a bit more broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it reheats. Stir vigorously to ensure everything melds evenly before serving, avoiding any grainy textures.

Another potential pitfall is getting the seasoning just right. Always start with a small amount of salt and pepper, as you can add more later. Various broth strengths can affect how salty the dish turns out. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust accordingly; a little Parmesan can also help to enhance the overall flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth and a plant-based cheese.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would all be great additions to this pasta.

→ What if I don't have vegetable broth?

You can use water with a couple of vegetable bouillon cubes as a substitute.