This creamy white pasta sauce is a simple treat that adds a lovely touch to your favorite noodles. Made with butter, cream, and Parmesan, it’s rich and comforting.
You can toss it with any pasta you love, and with a sprinkle of herbs on top, it looks fancy! I often double the batch because leftovers are just too good to resist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using pasta shells for this dish since they hold the creamy sauce nicely. However, feel free to use any pasta you like—penne, farfalle, or spaghetti all work well!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms bring great flavor, but you can swap in canned mushrooms for convenience. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, try adding spinach or even cooked chicken for extra protein.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just know that it might not be as thick or rich, but it’ll still taste wonderful!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you don’t have it, a pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option can work nicely too.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce Thickens Perfectly?
Thickening the sauce can be a bit tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll get it right! The key is to simmer the cream gently and not rush the process.
- After adding the cream, keep the heat on medium so it slowly thickens.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Let it reduce for 3-4 minutes; you’ll see it becomes creamier and coats the back of a spoon.
With these steps, you’ll have a deliciously thick white sauce every time!
How to Make Pasta in Creamy White Sauce with Mushrooms and Parsley
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta shells or your choice of pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. Cooking the pasta and making the sauce can happen simultaneously, so it’s a quick and easy dish to whip up, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, then add the pasta shells. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until they are tender and golden brown.
3. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and is fully incorporated into the sauce. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss it in the creamy sauce to coat all the shells evenly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving hot. Enjoy your comforting and delicious pasta!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells work great for holding the creamy sauce, feel free to substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
Can I Make This Sauce Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this sauce vegan by substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or cashew cream and using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Also, opt for vegan butter and mushrooms to keep it plant-based!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This sauce pairs well with many vegetables. Consider adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms until tender before adding the cream.
