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: 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti; 2 cups sliced mushrooms (any variety); 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Favorites

I absolutely love making this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta when I'm short on time but craving something comforting and delicious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—everything cooks together in one pot, melding the flavors beautifully. The creamy sauce wraps around the pasta perfectly, making each bite a delight. Using fresh mushrooms adds a rich, earthy flavor, while the garlic and herbs elevate the dish even further. Trust me, this will quickly become a weeknight favorite in your home!

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:37:36.165Z

Making this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta was an adventure in flavor. I experimented with different types of mushrooms—shiitake, cremini, and portobello were my favorites. Cooking them down enhances their natural umami taste, and it’s all done in just one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze. I even added a splash of white wine to heighten the richness of the sauce!

This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s a great way to achieve the perfect sauce consistency!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce enveloping every strand of pasta
Fresh herbs and garlic bring out the best in mushrooms
Minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pot method

Mastering the One-Pot Technique

Using a one-pot method is not just time-saving; it also enhances the dish's overall flavor. As the pasta cooks, it releases starch into the broth, which helps to thicken the sauce and create a creamy texture. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot, especially during the first few minutes after adding the fettuccine.

Maintaining a gentle boil is essential. If the heat is too high, the pasta could overcook or the sauce might splatter. Aim for a simmer with a slight bubbling action. This allows the fettuccine to absorb the broth gradually, producing a perfectly al dente finish infused with the rich flavors of mushrooms and herbs.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

The type of mushrooms you use can dramatically affect the flavor profile of your creamy mushroom pasta. While button mushrooms are a common choice, try experimenting with varieties like cremini or shiitake for a deeper umami taste. If you're feeling adventurous, a mix of mushrooms can add complexity to the dish, so don't be afraid to blend flavors.

Ensure that your mushrooms are fresh and firm, as they should release moisture during cooking, adding to the creaminess of the sauce. If you notice any sliminess or discoloration, it’s best to discard them. Also, avoid washing mushrooms under water; instead, wipe them with a damp cloth to preserve their texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it great for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help restore the sauce's creaminess, as it may thicken in the fridge.

If you want to extend its life, consider freezing the pasta. Portion it into freezer-safe bags, leaving some space for expansion. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Adjust the sauce consistency as needed to enjoy a dish that tastes almost as good as freshly made!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious one pot meal:

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
2 cups sliced mushrooms (any variety)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavors!

Instructions

Follow these steps for cooking your pasta:

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms, then sauté until mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the fettuccine to the pot along with the vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Cook Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is cooked to al dente, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Cream

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through for another 2-3 minutes. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra richness, you can add grated Parmesan cheese before serving. If you like a bit of spice, incorporate some red pepper flakes when sautéing the mushrooms.

Flavor Enhancements

While this recipe shines with its current ingredient list, feel free to elevate the flavor by including a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms. Let it cook for a minute until the alcohol evaporates, which concentrates the mushroom flavor further before adding the broth. This technique adds acidity that can brighten up the richness of the cream.

Additionally, you might consider stirring in a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a dash of lemon juice just before serving for a tangy twist. These additions can help balance the creaminess and add depth to each bite.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy mushroom pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich pasta, cutting through its creaminess. Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or pecorino cheese just before serving will enhance the dish with a savory, nutty flavor.

For a heartier meal, consider adding proteins such as grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. These options can provide additional texture and make the dish even more satisfying. If you’re serving guests, consider offering crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up that wonderfully creamy sauce!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer, but cooking times may vary slightly.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Certainly! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu are great additions. Cook them separately and add them to the pasta just before serving.