Creamy Truffle Mushroom Pasta

If you’re a fan of indulgent pasta dishes, you’re going to love this Creamy Truffle Mushroom Pasta recipe. It’s rich, decadent, and absolutely brimming with umami flavors that feel like a hug in a bowl. The earthy mushrooms paired with the luxurious truffle oil make it a perfect dish for a cozy night in or even an elegant dinner party. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this restaurant-quality pasta right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

• Pasta (400g)
  Opt for tagliatelle, fettuccine, or pappardelle for the best results. Their wide, flat shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Mushrooms (300g)
  Use cremini, shiitake, or a mix of wild mushrooms for a robust, earthy flavor. Slice them thinly for even cooking. Pro tip: Pat them dry before slicing to prevent sogginess.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup)
  This forms the luscious base of the sauce. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half.
• Garlic (2 cloves)
  Minced garlic adds depth and aroma. Make sure to sauté it gently to avoid burning.
• Shallots (2 small)
  Shallots bring a subtle sweetness that complements the mushrooms. Finely dice for best results.
• Truffle Oil (2 tablespoons)
  The star of the show! Use a high-quality truffle oil to infuse the dish with that signature earthy aroma. Add it at the end to preserve its delicate flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
  A touch of umami and creaminess. Freshly grated parmesan melts perfectly into the sauce.
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
  This helps sauté the mushrooms to golden perfection.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste)
  Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
  A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance the rich flavors.

How to Make Creamy Truffle Mushroom Pasta

Here’s the step-by-step guide to creating this dreamy dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced shallots, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them down, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt to draw out their natural moisture.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Toss in the grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Toss to coat evenly, using reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness if needed.

Step 6: Finish with Truffle Oil
Drizzle the truffle oil over the pasta, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked pepper.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your decadent bowl of creamy truffle mushroom pasta!

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Skillet or sauté pan for the sauce
• Knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Cheese grater for parmesan

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While flat pasta like tagliatelle works best, you can use spaghetti, penne, or any pasta you have on hand.

What if I don’t have truffle oil?
If you don’t have truffle oil, you can still make a delicious creamy mushroom pasta. Substitute with a drizzle of olive oil and an extra sprinkle of parmesan for richness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can! Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, and swap butter for olive oil. The result will still be creamy and flavorful.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

What mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Cremini and shiitake are excellent choices, but any mushroom variety will work. A mix of mushrooms adds complexity to the flavor.

Can I add protein to this dish?
Of course! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta are fantastic additions that complement the creamy sauce.

Is truffle oil healthy?
While truffle oil is used in small amounts, it’s high in flavor and aroma, so a little goes a long way. Enjoy it as an occasional indulgence!

Conclusion

I hope you love this Creamy Truffle Mushroom Pasta as much as I do! It’s the perfect dish for when you want to treat yourself or impress your guests with minimal effort. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends on Facebook using the share buttons below or save it to Pinterest for later. Bon appétit!