Often celebrated as the ultimate comfort food, pasta comes in the form of myriads of dishes and variations, but the Butter Garlic Mushroom Pasta stands out for the richness of its flavor and its simplicity. A combination of strong flavors of garlic with mushrooms sauteed with a delightful sauce that pervades the entire pasta makes it irresistible to most people. A dish that can be made in under 30 minutes for those in a hurry but do not wish to compromise on taste.

PROCESS:

• First, let’s prepare the pasta. Cook the pasta in boiling water according to package instructions until tender but chewy. Reserve some pasta water to be used in the creamy sauce later.

• Melt some butter on a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts add onion and garlic and cook for another minute.

• Add the mushrooms and sauté for a little over a minute. Add the seasonings and the parmesan.

• Add the cooked pasta to the developed sauce and stir the combination until the sauce coats itself on the pasta satisfactorily. If the sauce is too thick for your taste, add the reserved pasta water to thin out its consistency. Sprinkle some parsley and serve the pasta hot!

Here’s what you are going to need to make it:

Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to our dish, most essential ingredient of this pasta.

Mushrooms: These add a lovely earthy flavor to your dish. You can use any kind you like, such as button or cremini mushrooms.

Onion: Adds sweet flavor. You can use shallots for less strong flavor.

Garlic: Adds aromatic and bold flavor.

Salt: Enhances taste.

Black Pepper: For a bit of heat and warmth.

Chili Flakes: Adds a kick of spice.

Rosemary: It pairs well with mushrooms and adds a bit of earthiness.

Oregano: An earthy herb.

Basil: Adds sweet and fresh flavor.

Freshly Grated Parmesan: Adds creaminess to the pasta.

Pasta Water: Helps adjust the sauce consistency.

Pasta:  You can use linguine, fettucine or spaghetti if you prefer.

INGREDIENTS:

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces dried pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)

• 4 cups water

• Salt, for the boiling water

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 onion, finely chopped

• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced

• 250 grams mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or button)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

• Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Salting the water is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add 8 ounces of dried pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-12 minutes, until al dente.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

• While the pasta is cooking, heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporating the Mushrooms

• Now, add 250 grams of sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté them until they are tender and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms should be golden and fragrant, soaking up the flavors from the butter and spices.

Step 4: Adding Flavor

• Once the mushrooms are softened, it’s time to introduce your seasonings. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of basil. Stir for about 20-30 seconds to let the spices bloom.

Step 5: Creating the Sauce

• Next, stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a splash (about 1/4 cup) of the reserved pasta water. Mix until the cheese melts and combines with the mushroom mixture, creating a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Tossing in the Pasta

• Once your sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Use kitchen tongs to toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If needed, add a bit more reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

• Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and freshness. Toss continuously, tasting to adjust the seasoning with additional salt if necessary.

Step 8: Serving

• Serve the Butter Garlic Mushroom Pasta warm, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.

Tips and Notes:

• Reserve around a cup of pasta water before draining. This water will help you achieve the desired sauce consistency.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh and high-quality ingredients make a huge difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. Use fresh mushrooms and high-quality Parmesan cheese.

• The star of this dish, butter adds richness and a smoothness. Don’t be stingy while adding butter.

• Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully, contributes to creaminess and a savory flavor that complements the dish.

• If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

• Deglazing the pan releases the caramelized, savory flavors stuck to the bottom.

• Don’t burn the butter: Cooking the butter to a golden-brown color is important. If you burn it, start again. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your dish.

• Mushrooms: Choose varieties based on your preference: cremini for a robust flavor, shiitake for a more exotic touch, or button mushrooms for a classic choice.

• Add some color: Throw in some cherry tomatoes or spinach to add some color and freshness to the dish.

• Pair long, thin pasta shapes like spaghetti, angel hair or linguine with light, oily sauces.

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Add protein for a heartier meal. Sauté them separately and combine with the pasta at the end.

• Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian option, sauté cubed tofu or tempeh with the mushrooms.

• Sautéing ingredients quickly over medium-high heat preserves their texture and flavor

• Serve with warm garlic bread for a classic combination.