Introduction
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful mushroom spaghetti that brings together the earthy taste of cremini mushrooms with the richness of a creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, combining simple ingredients to create a culinary delight. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a comforting meal, this recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– ¼ cup unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 16 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup vegetable broth, or more as needed
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ teaspoon dried basil
– ½ cup heavy cream
– ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese (substitutes: ricotta, cream cheese, or mascarpone)
– ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious mushroom spaghetti that’s both hearty and satisfying. Your kitchen will be filled with wonderful aromas as you create this delightful dish that’s bound to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti well and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and thinly sliced cremini mushrooms. Cook while stirring occasionally until the mushrooms are tender and browned, approximately 5-6 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour
Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add Broth and Herbs
Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth followed by the dried rosemary, thyme, and basil. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until all ingredients are well incorporated, roughly 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Mix in Cream and Cheeses
Stir in the heavy cream, crumbled goat cheese, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add additional vegetable broth as needed. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine with Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce in the saucepan and gently toss to combine, ensuring that the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the dish immediately, garnished with chopped fresh chives if desired.
Notes
Substitutes for Goat Cheese
If you prefer, crumbled goat cheese can be substituted with ricotta, cream cheese, or mascarpone.
Adjusting Thickness of Sauce
If you find the sauce too thick at any point, simply add more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Fresh Herbs
For a fresher taste, consider using fresh herbs in place of dried herbs, adjusting the quantities according to your preference.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, ensure the spaghetti has enough room to cook evenly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Follow the package instructions for perfect doneness.
Sautéing
Use medium heat to melt the butter in a saucepan. Add garlic and mushrooms, stirring occasionally. This technique enhances the flavors and browns the mushrooms properly.
Whisking
Incorporate flour into the sautéed mixture carefully, whisking until it turns lightly browned. Whisking helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth sauce texture.
Gradual Mixing
Gradually add the vegetable broth to the flour mixture while whisking continuously. This method helps to create a cohesive sauce without clumps.
Simmering
After adding herbs, let the mixture cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Simmering thickens the sauce appropriately.
Finishing Sauce
Add heavy cream and cheeses, stirring until slightly thickened. This technique ensures the sauce becomes creamy and flavorful.
Tossing
Gently toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce to combine all flavors. Use this method to coat the pasta evenly without breaking it.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options.
What can I use if I don’t have goat cheese?
You can substitute goat cheese with ricotta, cream cheese, or mascarpone cheese.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter, omit cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast, and use a plant-based cream.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
What can I add for extra protein?
Consider adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or cooked chickpeas for additional protein in this dish.
Conclusion
This creamy mushroom spaghetti is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, herbs, and cheese. The combination of cremini mushrooms and fragrant seasonings results in a satisfying sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. With its balance of creamy and savory elements, it’s sure to please a crowd or serve as a cozy meal for yourself.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mushroom Risotto
Replace the spaghetti with Arborio rice and follow a similar method for a creamy risotto infused with the same rich mushroom flavors.
Vegetarian Lasagna
Layer cooked noodles with the creamy mushroom sauce, spinach, and mozzarella for a delightful vegetarian lasagna.
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Quesadillas
Use the sautéed mushrooms and goat cheese in tortillas and grill until crispy for a tasty quesadilla treat.
Mushroom Stuffed Chicken
Combine the mushroom and cheese mixture to stuff boneless chicken breasts, then bake until golden for a flavorful main dish.
Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Toss cooked pasta with roasted seasonal vegetables and a lighter version of the mushroom sauce for a refreshing salad option.
Mushroom and Cheese Frittata
Incorporate the sautéed mushrooms and cheeses into a frittata mixture for a hearty brunch dish that’s easy to prepare.
