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 sliced mushrooms; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Bites

I absolutely love making this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta, especially on busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, everything cooks together in one pot, creating a deliciously creamy and comforting dish. The combination of sautéed mushrooms in a rich garlic cream sauce over pasta is simply irresistible. Plus, I'm always amazed at how quickly this dish comes together while still packing in so much flavor—it's become a favorite in my household that I think you’ll enjoy too!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:30:36.380Z

When I first stumbled upon this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta recipe, I was fascinated by the idea of minimizing dishes while still creating something truly delicious. The secret lies in using a mix of fresh mushrooms and aromatics like garlic and onion, which combine beautifully as they cook together with the pasta. Each bite is bursting with flavor!

This method is not only foolproof but also allows the pasta to absorb the creaminess of the sauce while it cooks, ensuring a rich, flavorful experience without the need for excessive stirring. I love to finish mine with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a dash of black pepper for that extra kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ultra creamy texture that warms your soul
Load of umami flavor from fresh mushrooms
Quick clean-up with just one pot needed
Versatile for adding your favorite proteins or veggies

Perfect Pasta Cooking Techniques

The key to achieving perfectly cooked fettuccine in this One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta lies in the timing and technique. Begin by ensuring the water or broth reaches a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Stir the fettuccine gently within the first minute to prevent any sticking. Cooking the pasta covered allows for better steam distribution, leading to even tenderness. Keep an eye on it, as al dente pasta should have a slight bite—about 10 minutes usually does the trick, but check on it a minute or two earlier, especially since stove heat can vary.

During the simmering phase, I recommend stirring occasionally to avoid any pasta clumping. If you notice the liquid reducing too much or the pasta isn't fully submerged, add a little more vegetable broth or water. This helps maintain creaminess and avoid dried-out pasta—a common issue if you walk away for too long. Once you achieve that perfect al dente texture, the next step is to incorporate the heavy cream.

Elevating Flavor with Mushroom Choices

The choice of mushrooms significantly impacts the umami richness of this dish. While classic button mushrooms are a reliable option, I suggest experimenting with a mix of shiitake or cremini for depth. Shiitake mushrooms have a robust flavor that complements the garlic and thyme beautifully, while cremini adds an earthiness to the overall profile. Fresh is best, but if you're in a pinch, dried mushrooms can also work—just soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes before adding them to the pot and use the soaking liquid as part of your broth for added flavor.

Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme during the sautéing process enhances the aroma and flavor profile of the dish. Don’t hesitate to increase the amount or add other herbs like parsley or rosemary if desired. If you prefer a more pronounced flavor, allow the mushrooms to caramelize slightly before adding the garlic. Aim for a golden brown color on their edges for that extra depth. This not only amps up flavor but also creates exciting texture contrasts in the final dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you begin cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure to have everything ready to make the cooking process smooth and quick.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta:

Sauté the Veggies

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Pasta and Liquid

Add the fettuccine pasta to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Cream

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer, uncovered, for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Serve

Serve your creamy mushroom pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional thyme, if desired.

Pair this dish with a simple salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider using a mix of mushrooms like cremini and shiitake. You can also substitute some or all of the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative if desired.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy mushroom pasta holds up surprisingly well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. After the pasta has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container, where it can be stored for up to three days. Reheating is simple—add a splash of broth or cream to the pot to prevent dryness while warming it over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring a delightful, creamy consistency rather than a clumpy reheat.

If you're looking to prepare it in advance, consider cooking the pasta slightly less than al dente. This helps maintain its integrity when reheating, as it will continue cooking when warmed up. You can also sauté the mushrooms and onions ahead of time and store them separately for easy assembly. The creamy sauce can be made fresh right before serving to retain its luscious texture—just remember it takes only a couple of minutes to whip up!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, consider adding protein options like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only adds nutritional value but also creates a heartier dish that satisfies all appetites. If you're aiming for a vegetarian twist, complement the flavor with spinach or kale stirred in just before serving, allowing them to wilt gently in the warmth of the pasta.

Don't shy away from topping your creamy mushroom pasta with fun garnishes. Extra grated Parmesan not only enhances the dish visually but also intensifies the flavor experience. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an enticing kick, or finish with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for richness. If you're feeling adventurous, a handful of toasted walnuts can add a lovely crunch and healthy fats, elevating both taste and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, although cooking times may vary slightly.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based cream and floral broth for a delicious vegan version.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are great additions.