Go Back

Tuscan Mushroom Pasta

This Tuscan Mushroom Pasta is a rich, comforting dish featuring tender pasta tossed in a velvety creamy mushroom sauce made with garlic, herbs, Parmesan, and perfectly sautéed mushrooms. Inspired by rustic Italian flavors, this dish is simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta penne, fettuccine, or linguine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cups sliced mushrooms button, cremini, or little mushroom mix
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup fresh spinach optional, Tuscan-style addition

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
  3. Sauté the Mushrooms
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown and tender (about 6–8 minutes).
  6. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  7. Make the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
  8. Pour in broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  9. Add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  10. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
  11. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  12. Combine Everything
  13. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
  14. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  15. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
  16. Serve
  17. Garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra richness, add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce.
  • This creamy sauce works beautifully as a base for mushroom sauce for chicken or steak.
  • If you enjoy cream of mushroom soup recipes, this homemade version offers a fresher and more flavorful alternative.
  • Mix different mushroom varieties for deeper flavor.