Introduction

Creamy Mushroom Penne is a comforting dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with a rich, velvety sauce. This meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a luxurious taste without an overwhelming preparation process.

Penne pasta, characterized by its tubular shape and ridged surface, holds onto the sauce beautifully, allowing each bite to be bursting with flavor. The addition of mushrooms contributes both a meaty texture and a depth of umami that's hard to resist.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Creamy Mushroom Penne will have your family and friends asking for seconds.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
Penne pasta serves as the foundation of this dish, providing a sturdy base that holds up the creamy sauce. Its ridged surface captures the sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil is essential for sautéing the mushrooms and onion. It adds richness to the dish and allows for a nice sear, enhancing the flavor of the vegetables.
1 medium onion, diced
Onion contributes sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. When sautéed, it becomes soft and caramelized, adding complexity to the creamy sauce.
16 oz mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button)
Mushrooms are the star of this recipe, providing an earthy richness that complements the creamy sauce. Their meaty texture makes this dish satisfying and hearty.
4 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds a bold aromatic flavor that enhances the overall dish. It becomes fragrant when sautéed, infusing the oil and mushrooms with its distinct taste.
1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream creates the luxurious, creamy texture that envelopes the pasta. It also helps bind the flavors together, making each bite delightfully rich.
1 cup vegetable broth
Vegetable broth adds depth and additional moisture to the sauce, balancing the cream's richness. It infuses the dish with savory notes that enhance the mushrooms and other ingredients.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that deepens the overall taste of the dish. It melts beautifully into the sauce, enriching its creaminess.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning with salt and pepper is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients. Adjusting these seasonings will help you achieve the perfect balance in the sauce.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh parsley serves as a bright and vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color. Its freshness also complements the richness of the creamy sauce, rounding out the dish beautifully.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.

Cooking the penne pasta until al dente is crucial, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Be sure to salt the water generously to flavor the pasta as it cooks. Reserve a cup of pasta water for later use, which can help adjust the sauce's consistency.

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Heating the olive oil in the skillet creates an ideal base for sautéing the vegetables. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the onions to ensure they start to caramelize right away, enhancing their sweetness.

Step 3: Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cooking the onions until they are translucent softens their texture and develops their natural sweetness. Stir them occasionally to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned, about 7 minutes.

Browning the mushrooms releases their moisture and concentrates their flavor. You'll notice a rich, savory aroma as they cook. Stir occasionally to ensure they brown evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Step 5: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Adding garlic at this point infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma, elevating the overall flavor. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.

Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.

Combining the cream and broth now creates the base for the sauce. The cream adds richness, while the broth contributes depth of flavor. As it heats, you'll notice the sauce start to thicken slightly.

Step 7: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Incorporating Parmesan cheese enriches the sauce and adds a delicious umami bite. Stir constantly until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy consistency that clings to the pasta.

Step 8: Mix in the cooked penne pasta, adjusting the sauce consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.

Adding the penne to the sauce allows it to soak up flavors. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick. The starchy water also helps the sauce adhere to the pasta more effectively.

Step 9: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tasting and adjusting the seasoning is key to developing the dish's flavor profile. A touch of salt can brighten the dish, while pepper adds a subtle heat, rounding out the creamy taste.

Step 10: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Serving the dish hot and garnished with fresh parsley not only enhances its appearance but also adds a refreshing note. The garnish brings a touch of color and balances the creamy richness of the sauce.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

The type of mushrooms you select can significantly impact the flavor of your Creamy Mushroom Penne. While button mushrooms are commonly used, cremini or shiitake mushrooms can add a deeper umami flavor. You can even mix varieties for a more complex taste profile. Be sure to clean them gently with a damp cloth instead of washing them under running water to preserve their texture.

The Secret to Creamy Perfection

Achieving the perfect creaminess in your sauce is an art. The balance between heavy cream and vegetable broth is essential; too much broth can dilute the flavor, while too little cream can leave the sauce lacking. Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged can also help create a smoother sauce. The natural oils in freshly grated cheese enhance the creaminess.

Enhancing with Fresh Herbs

While parsley is a great garnish, exploring other fresh herbs can heighten the dish further. Fresh thyme or rosemary can introduce aromatic notes that complement the mushrooms beautifully. Simply toss in a few sprigs during the cooking process or use them as a finish for a more herbaceous touch that elevates this comforting meal.

FAQs

What if the sauce is too thick?

If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water while stirring to reach the desired consistency. This starchy water helps to thin the sauce without losing flavor.

How can I scale this recipe for more servings?

To scale the recipe, simply multiply each ingredient's quantity based on the desired number of servings. Proportionally adjust cooking times, especially for the pasta.

Can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or serving with a dash of hot sauce. Adjust to your taste preference.

What types of pasta can I use instead of penne?

You can substitute penne with other tubular pastas like rigatoni, or even flat types like fettuccine or tagliatelle. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

My sauce tastes bland; how can I improve it?

If your sauce lacks flavor, try adding more salt, pepper, or a dash of soy sauce. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavor profile.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to the heavy cream?

For a vegetarian option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream made from blended soaked cashews for a creamy texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Penne is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures. With the right ingredients and a little love, you can create a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen.

Experimenting with the ingredients allows you to personalize this dish, whether it's through different types of mushrooms or adding a splash of white wine for acidity. Enjoy this dish often as a weeknight staple or for special gatherings.

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