One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Name: One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne); 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Inspiration

I absolutely love making One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. This dish transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. The method ensures that the pasta absorbs all the rich flavors from the mushrooms and broth, creating a creamy sauce without the need for heavy cream. Perfect for any night of the week, this meal has become a family favorite at our dinner table.

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:13:35.451Z

It all began one rainy evening when I was craving comfort food but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I decided to experiment with a one-pot method that I’d seen online. The creamy texture created by sautéing mushrooms first and adding a bit of pasta water was a game-changer in my cooking routine. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it quickly became our go-to pasta dish.

During my experimentation, I discovered that using high-quality mushrooms makes a significant difference in the final taste. Whether you choose cremini or shiitake, they all add a depth of flavor that transforms this simple dish. I often finish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra freshness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that clings to every noodle
One pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy
Rich umami flavor from sautéed mushrooms

      

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The heavy cream is crucial for achieving that rich, luxurious texture in the One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta. As it simmers with the cooked pasta, it combines with the starches released during cooking to form a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to each noodle. For a lighter alternative, you could substitute half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk, which adds a subtle sweetness while remaining non-dairy—perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Be careful not to boil the cream once you've added it to the pasta; sudden high heat can cause it to separate and lose its velvety consistency. Instead, keep the heat low after you mix in the cream and stir gently to maintain that smooth texture. If you prefer an extra creamy sauce, allow the mixture to simmer a little longer until it thickens to your liking.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

Mushrooms serve not only as the primary ingredient but also as a vehicle for umami flavor in this dish. You can elevate the dish further by incorporating different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster, which lend additional depth and complexity. You might also consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside the mushrooms for a fragrant twist—just sauté them briefly to release their essential oils before adding the broth.

If you're looking to add protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be fantastic additions. Just make sure to cook them separately first and then toss them in at the end to warm through. This will maintain the integrity of the dish while giving it that satisfying heartiness without compromising the creamy mushroom flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are browned and tender, approximately 5 minutes.

Add the Pasta and Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately for best flavor.

Let the pasta cool completely if you plan to store leftovers.

Pro Tips

Adding a splash of white wine when sautéing mushrooms enhances the flavor beautifully. This dish is also great for meal prep
just reheat gently with a little extra cream or broth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb moisture from the sauce, so consider adding a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore its creaminess. Microwaving is an option, but for best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

If you're considering a make-ahead option, you can prepare the mushroom base in advance and store it separately. When you're ready to eat, simply cook the pasta and combine. This not only cuts down on cooking time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully without sacrificing texture.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or just a cozy dinner for two. To double the recipe, increase the quantity of every ingredient proportionally, but also remember that a larger quantity may require slightly more cooking time—especially when simmering the pasta. Keep an eye on the texture of the pasta and adjust the broth levels as needed to ensure it cooks evenly.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply use less broth relative to the pasta, but make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly. Similarly, if you're halving the recipe, be vigilant about reducing not just the ingredient amounts but also the cooking time, generally a minute or two less should suffice—always taste for doneness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add spinach, peas, or even roasted bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape, just adjust the cooking time according to the type.