Creamy Mushroom and Herb Tagliatelle

The Creamy Mushroom and Herb Tagliatelle is an elegant yet comforting pasta dish that’s as perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner as it is for a dinner-party centerpiece. Tender ribbons of tagliatelle are coated in a silky sauce made from earthy mushrooms, garlic, and herbs — all enveloped in luscious cream and Parmesan cheese.

The flavors are rustic and comforting — rich but balanced, creamy yet fresh from the herbs. Every bite delivers deep umami from the mushrooms and a touch of luxury from the cream sauce.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it brings together everything I adore about Italian comfort food — simplicity, aroma, and soul-satisfying flavor. The mushrooms give that deep, earthy base, the garlic and herbs make it aromatic, and the cream ties it all together with a silky finish.

This dish is warm, cozy, and deeply satisfying without being heavy. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes to make but tastes like something you’d order at a fine restaurant. It’s a dish that never fails to impress.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Creamy Mushroom and Herb Tagliatelle is a must-try because:

• It’s quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
• Packed with rich, savory flavors and creamy texture.
• Perfect balance of comfort and elegance.
• Customizable with different mushrooms or herbs.
• Makes a restaurant-quality meal at home.

If you love creamy pasta dishes, this one will easily become your go-to favorite.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings & Calories

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~480 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) tagliatelle (fresh or dried)
• Salt, for pasta water

For the Creamy Mushroom Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 oz (340 g) mixed mushrooms (cremini, button, shiitake, or oyster), sliced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Boil pasta until al dente.
2. Sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms in butter and oil.
3. Add herbs, broth, and cream; simmer into a silky sauce.
4. Toss pasta in the sauce, sprinkle Parmesan, and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Tagliatelle

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the tagliatelle and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes for dried, 3–4 minutes for fresh).
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
4. Set aside while you make the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.

Step 3: Add Herbs and Cream

1. Stir in thyme and oregano, letting them bloom in the hot pan for 30 seconds.
2. Add the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well.
4. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season

1. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
3. For extra depth, add a splash of white wine or lemon juice if desired.

Step 5: Toss the Pasta

1. Add the cooked tagliatelle directly to the pan.
2. Toss gently until well coated with the creamy mushroom sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and more Parmesan.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or a green salad on the side.

How to Serve

• Serve in warm pasta bowls for that restaurant feel.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Pair with garlic bread or buttered toast.
• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements it beautifully.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables or green salad for balance.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use a mix of mushrooms for more complex flavor — cremini, shiitake, and oyster work wonderfully together.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking mushrooms — let them brown for better flavor.
• Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley add brightness — always finish with a sprinkle.
• Save pasta water — it helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the noodles.
• For a richer flavor, replace part of the cream with Mascarpone cheese or crème fraîche.

Variations

• Truffle Mushroom Tagliatelle: Add a drizzle of truffle oil before serving.
• Vegan Version: Use olive oil and coconut cream instead of butter and dairy.
• Garlic Lover’s Version: Double the garlic and top with roasted cloves.
• Spinach Mushroom Pasta: Add a handful of fresh spinach in the last minute of cooking.
• Lemon-Herb Twist: Add lemon zest and juice for a lighter, refreshing version.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing:

• Not ideal for freezing due to the cream base, but you can freeze the mushroom sauce separately for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly before adding fresh pasta.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Deep skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or tongs for tossing
• Cheese grater for fresh Parmesan
• Colander for draining pasta

FAQ

Q1: What mushrooms are best for this recipe?
A mix of cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms gives the best depth of flavor. Button mushrooms also work well if that’s what you have.

Q2: Can I make this without cream?
Yes — substitute with whole milk and add 1 tablespoon of flour to thicken, or use cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

Q3: How can I add protein to this dish?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for extra protein.

Q4: Can I use other pasta types?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti also work beautifully.

Q5: How can I make it lighter?
Use light cream or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream, and add more herbs for flavor.

Conclusion

The Creamy Mushroom and Herb Tagliatelle is the epitome of comforting elegance — a dish that brings warmth, sophistication, and pure satisfaction with every bite. The earthy mushrooms, fragrant herbs, and velvety cream sauce come together in perfect harmony, creating a meal that’s both simple and indulgent.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one, or a dinner crowd, this pasta never fails to impress. It’s the perfect balance of rustic and refined — comfort food elevated with classic Italian finesse.