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 pasta; 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Home-Style Comfort Dishes

I absolutely love creating quick and flavorful meals, and this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta is one of my favorites. It comes together in just 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pot! The combination of earthy mushrooms and rich cream creates a comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a creamy, decadent pasta that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:22:35.781Z

During one of my busy evenings, I craved something comforting but didn't want to spend too much time in the kitchen. I decided to try a one-pot pasta recipe, and it turned out to be a game changer! The method works well because cooking the pasta directly in the sauce allows it to absorb all those lovely flavors, resulting in a creamy and satisfying dish.

I experimented with different types of mushrooms and came to love the richness of cremini mushrooms in this dish. A little bit of fresh parsley at the end really brightens it up, making every bite a delicious experience!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that envelops each pasta strand
Earthy flavor from sautéed mushrooms
One-pot convenience for quick cleanup

Mastering One-Pot Cooking

One of the key benefits of this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta is that it allows for a seamless cooking experience. By cooking everything in one pot, you save not only time but also the hassle of cleaning multiple dishes. The initial sautéing of the onions and garlic provides a flavorful foundation that infuses into the pasta as it cooks. I recommend using a large, sturdy pot that can handle high heat without warping, ensuring even cooking throughout.

To maximize flavor, make sure to sauté the onions and garlic over medium heat until they are fragrant and golden. If you notice them browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly. This step intensifies the dish’s overall taste, making each bite more satisfying. The recipe's simplicity doesn't compromise on flavor; however, it's vital to follow the sautéing step closely for the best results.

The Role of Mushroom Varieties

The choice of mushrooms is crucial for achieving the desired earthy flavor in this dish. While cremini mushrooms are the star here, you could also experiment with shiitake or portobello for a deeper taste. Just ensure that whatever mushrooms you choose are fresh; they should be firm and free of dark spots. If using dried mushrooms, rehydrate them first and adjust your liquid levels accordingly to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.

When you cook the mushrooms, aim for that perfect golden color. This gives depth to the flavor profile and ensures a pleasant texture. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the mushrooms to steam rather than sauté, preventing them from developing that essential golden crust.

Tips for Creaminess and Serving Suggestions

To achieve that velvety creaminess, be sure to add the heavy cream after the pasta cooks. This allows the cream to meld seamlessly with the starch released from the past, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to each strand. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you could substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream for a vegan option, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the final texture.

For serving, I recommend topping your dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added color and flavor. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also offers a delightful contrast to the creamy elements. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the leftover sauce, making for a comforting and complete meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta:

Ingredients

8 oz. fettuccine pasta
2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy masterpiece:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Then add the sliced mushrooms, cooking until softened and golden.

Cook the Pasta

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the fettuccine, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.

Add Cream and Season

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until creamy.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your meal!

That’s it! A delightful meal ready in no time.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms. It adds depth to the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This creamy mushroom pasta can be made ahead of time, which is a fantastic option for meal prep. Simply cook according to the recipe instructions, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce and restore its creaminess.

If you're planning to freeze the dish, keep in mind that creamy sauces can sometimes separate upon thawing. To combat this, consider freezing the pasta and the sauce separately if possible. When reheating, stir well and adjust with a little extra cream or broth to achieve the desired consistency.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Spinach, peas, or even grilled chicken could complement the earthy flavors well. If you opt for additional veggies, add them after the mushrooms have softened to ensure they don’t overcook.

For a kick of flavor, consider stirring in a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms and before adding the broth. This will enhance the dish’s complexity and add a delightful acidity that pairs beautifully with the cream.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the pasta is sticking together, it may be due to not enough liquid or cooking it at too high of a temperature. Make sure to keep it at a rolling simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping. Adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the pot while cooking can also help keep the pasta separate.

In case the sauce turns out too thick, simply add more vegetable broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Mix it well and allow it to heat through to ensure the flavors meld perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute fettuccine with penne, spaghetti, or any pasta you prefer.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, the recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegetarian-friendly!

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, peas, or bell peppers are great additions for more color and nutrients.

→ How do 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 to loosen it up.