A creamy and comforting pasta dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With earthy cremini mushrooms and simple ingredients, it’s a delicious meal that anyone can whip up in no time.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time25 min
Total Time35 min
Difficulty
Medium
Tips To Improve This Recipe
Use fresh cremini mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing mushrooms to ensure they brown nicely.
Stir the sauce gently to prevent it from curdling and keep it smooth.
Ingredients
0/11
Why This Recipe Is A Favorite
Quick to prepare and full of rich, comforting flavors. The earthy mushrooms pair perfectly with the creamy sauce, making it satisfying without being heavy. It’s a great option for a weeknight meal that feels special.
Step 1
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite, about 11 minutes. Drain the pasta, but be sure to save about a cup of the pasta water—you might need it to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic, and cook them until they’re soft and fragrant, around 5 minutes.
Step 3
Turn the heat up to medium-high and give everything a good stir as you sprinkle in the flour. Keep stirring to avoid lumps, then season with salt and pepper.
Step 4
Pour in the cream, then add the cheese and a pinch of nutmeg. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer, stirring every few minutes so it doesn’t stick or clump. If it gets too thick or starts to stick, turn the heat down and add a little more butter.
Step 5
Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, toss in the cooked pasta. Add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water to get the sauce to the perfect consistency. Give everything a good mix and you’re ready to serve.
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Best Ways To Serve
Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and fresh parsley on top. A simple green salad or garlic bread will complement the dish well. For a heartier meal, add some grilled chicken or roasted vegetables on the side.
Keeping It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, any long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti will work well if you don’t have linguine.
How can I make the sauce less thick if it gets too dense?
Add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
What can I substitute for spreadable cheese with cracked pepper?
You can use cream cheese, goat cheese, or a soft cheese with herbs for a similar creamy texture and flavor.
Is it necessary to save the pasta water?
Yes, the starchy pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s thickness and makes it stick better to the pasta.
Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh cremini mushrooms?
You can, but rehydrate dried mushrooms first and reduce added liquid to avoid a watery sauce.
How long should I cook the pasta to get the right texture?
Cook until al dente, about 11 minutes, so it’s tender but still has a slight bite.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute, but the flavor may differ.
Should I add the nutmeg before or after cooking the sauce?
Add nutmeg during the sauce cooking process to allow its flavor to infuse evenly.
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