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: 300g penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 250g mushrooms, sliced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Kitchen

I absolutely love whipping up a comforting dish of creamy mushroom pasta that feels indulgent yet is so simple to prepare. The best part? It's all done in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. I highlight the deep flavors of mushrooms and infuse the dish with fresh herbs and a splash of lemon for a nice balance. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, making it the ultimate weeknight meal that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:17:35.700Z

During my search for quick dinner ideas, I stumbled upon the concept of one-pot cooking, and it completely transformed my approach to weeknight meals. I decided to create a creamy mushroom pasta that not only preserved the flavors of each ingredient but also saved me time on cleanup. The secret? Sautéing the mushrooms first to deepen their flavor before adding everything else in!

This dish has quickly become a staple in my household, especially because the sauce effortlessly clings to the pasta and offers a comforting warmth. I never skip adding a squeeze of lemon at the end; it brightens the dish beautifully and balances the richness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that envelopes every piece of pasta
Earthy and savory flavor from sautéed mushrooms
One-pot convenience means less cleanup, more time for enjoyment

      

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Mushrooms are the stars of this creamy pasta dish, and selecting the right type can elevate the flavor profile significantly. While button mushrooms are a classic choice, consider using shiitake or cremini for a deeper, earthier taste. These mushrooms offer distinct flavors and textures; shiitake brings a hint of smokiness, while cremini adds a robust umami. If you're feeling adventurous, try a mix of mushrooms to create a wonderful variety of textures and tastes that will enrich the dish.

When preparing the mushrooms, be sure to slice them evenly to ensure uniform cooking. If they are cut too thickly, they may not soften properly or may take longer to absorb the flavors of the sauté. Aim for slices about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook through in the same time it takes for the other ingredients to harmonize, preventing any one ingredient from overwhelming the overall taste.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The heavy cream is what makes this dish luscious and rich, but it’s essential to add it at the right moment. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, reducing the heat to low before adding the cream helps to prevent it from curdling. Stirring constantly will also ensure that the cream incorporates smoothly into the broth, creating a cohesive sauce. If you find the sauce too thick, a splash of pasta water or additional broth can help to adjust the consistency without sacrificing flavor.

For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms, letting it simmer until reduced before adding the broth. This step adds a layer of acidity to balance the creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. It pairs wonderfully with the lemon splash recommended, bringing a brightness that cuts through the richness.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Should you have any leftovers, this creamy mushroom pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken upon chilling, so I recommend adding a tablespoon or two of broth or cream before reheating to bring it back to its original creamy consistency. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If you're using a microwave, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish with a lid and add a few splashes of broth, heating in short intervals until warmed through.

If you want to enjoy this dish later, consider freezing it for longer storage. However, keep in mind that cream-based sauces may separate upon thawing. To combat this, use a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to eat. For the best texture and flavors, I suggest adding a splash of fresh cream or a handful of sautéed mushrooms when reheating to freshen it up and restore some of the original richness.

Ingredients

Pasta Ingredients

300g penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
250g mushrooms, sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Feel free to customize the ingredients with your favorite vegetables or protein!

Instructions

Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms

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

Add the Pasta and Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente.

Finish with Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one pot meal!

For added flavor, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms. It enhances the overall depth of the sauce.

Serving Ideas

This one pot creamy mushroom pasta can be served as a main dish or as a delightful side. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to complement the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or toasted baguettes also make an excellent addition, allowing you to savor every drop of the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds another layer of flavor, enhancing the savory notes of the dish.

To add a pop of color and nutrition, toss in some sautéed spinach or peas right at the end of cooking. They will brighten the dish visually while also providing a nutritional boost. This is a great way to make the meal feel even more special and satisfying, breaking up the creaminess with a lighter veggie element.

Making It Your Own

One of the best things about this creamy mushroom pasta is its versatility. To switch things up, you can add protein like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon for some added flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly; seafood will cook quicker than chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider adding more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes, which can be sautéed along with the mushrooms.

If you'd like to make this dish lighter, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or using a plant-based cream alternative. This will reduce the richness while still maintaining a creamy texture, making the dish more suitable for various dietary preferences. You can also experiment with whole-grain pasta or gluten-free pasta to adapt the recipe to different diets while preserving the deliciousness.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that the sauce is too runny, allow it to simmer on low heat for a few extra minutes to help it thicken. Alternatively, if it becomes too thick, gradually add pasta water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Always remember that the heat should remain low after adding the cream, as high temperatures can cause it to separate.

For those who prefer a bit of texture in their sauce, consider blending a portion of the cooked mushrooms and returning them to the pot. This will create a silkier sauce with some mushroom essence while still leaving some chunks for texture. If you accidentally oversalt, a small squeeze of lemon juice can balance the flavors and cut through the saltiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, just ensure that the vegetable broth you use is completely vegetarian-friendly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this pasta?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just make sure to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.