Spaghetti with Mushroom Herb Cream Sauce

Spaghetti with Mushroom Herb Cream Sauce is a flavorful and creamy pasta dish that’s packed with the earthy taste of mushrooms and the freshness of herbs. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and can be prepared quickly. Here’s how you can make it:

Spaghetti with Mushroom Herb Cream Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 oz (280g) mushrooms (such as cremini or button), sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra Parmesan, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:
   • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
   • In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
   • Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add the Herbs:
   • Stir in the thyme and rosemary, and cook for another minute to let the flavors infuse into the mushrooms.
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
   • Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable or chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the mushroom cream sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. Let it cook together for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:

• Add Protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to this dish for extra protein.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with herbs like basil, oregano, or tarragon for different flavor profiles.
• Creaminess Adjustment: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the cream with milk or use a lighter cream option.

Enjoy your Spaghetti with Mushroom Herb Cream Sauce—a creamy, savory dish that’s perfect for any pasta lover!