Tagliatelle with Mushrooms Recipe

Introduction

Tagliatelle with Mushrooms is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the delicate texture of fresh tagliatelle pasta with the earthy, umami-rich flavor of mushrooms. This classic Italian recipe highlights the natural flavors of mushrooms, complemented by a creamy sauce and a touch of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or serving it at a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. The richness of the sauce combined with the tender pasta makes each bite a delightful experience.

With its savory flavors, Tagliatelle with Mushrooms offers a perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to prepare and comes together quickly. The earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce pair beautifully with tagliatelle, making this dish a favorite for mushroom lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Tagliatelle with Mushrooms can be a stand-alone meal or served as a side dish to your main course.

Why You’ll Love Tagliatelle with Mushrooms

• Deliciously Earthy and Rich: The mushrooms bring a rich, umami flavor to the dish, while the creamy sauce and Parmesan add a luxurious depth that makes every bite satisfying.
• Simple yet Elegant: With a few fresh ingredients, this dish creates a sophisticated meal perfect for any occasion. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or holiday meals.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe by adding additional herbs, proteins, or vegetables to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Quick and Easy: Tagliatelle with Mushrooms comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Mushroom Lovers: If you love mushrooms, this dish is a dream come true. The mushrooms are the star of the dish, showcasing their deep, rich flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Tagliatelle with Mushrooms:

• 12 ounces (340g) tagliatelle pasta (fresh or dried)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms are great choices)
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Special Equipment

To make Tagliatelle with Mushrooms, you’ll need a few kitchen tools that will make the preparation smooth and easy:

1. Large Pot: A large pot for boiling the pasta ensures there’s enough room for the noodles to cook evenly and prevents them from sticking together.
2. Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A wide skillet or sauté pan is perfect for cooking the mushrooms and making the sauce. The larger surface area helps the mushrooms cook evenly and brown nicely.
3. Slotted Spoon or Tongs: A slotted spoon or tongs are useful for transferring the pasta from the pot to the skillet without bringing excess water.
4. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: These tools are ideal for stirring the mushrooms and the sauce, ensuring even distribution of the flavors and preventing any burning.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of ingredients will help you achieve the best balance of flavors in this dish.
6. Colander: A colander is necessary for draining the cooked pasta once it’s done. Make sure to reserve some pasta water for the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the tagliatelle pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes for fresh pasta or 10-12 minutes for dried. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to save about 1 cup of pasta water for later. Set the drained pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Mushrooms

While the pasta is cooking, clean and slice the mushrooms. If you’re using a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms, slice them into thin strips or halves. The mushrooms will shrink as they cook, so be sure to have enough to provide a generous amount in the dish.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions for 3-4 minutes, until they become soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir them well to ensure they are coated with the oil and butter. Allow the mushrooms to cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown. The mushrooms should become tender and flavorful during this time.

4. Create the Sauce

Once the mushrooms are cooked and browned, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Next, add the heavy cream to the pan. Stir the mixture well to combine. The cream will add a rich, velvety texture to the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 3-5 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly. Season the sauce with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

5. Combine the Pasta with the Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together, add the cooked tagliatelle pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce to coat it thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Continue to toss until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce is silky and smooth.

6. Finish with Cheese and Garnish

Once the pasta and sauce are well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and add an extra layer of richness. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve the Tagliatelle with Mushrooms immediately, ensuring each serving is generously coated with the creamy sauce.

Tips for Perfect Tagliatelle with Mushrooms

• Use a Variety of Mushrooms: Combining different types of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms, adds depth of flavor to the dish. Each type of mushroom has its unique texture and flavor, which will make your dish more complex and delicious.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the mushrooms, be sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook them in batches. Overcrowding can cause the mushrooms to steam instead of brown, which will affect the flavor and texture.
• Use Fresh Pasta for a Better Texture: If possible, opt for fresh tagliatelle pasta instead of dried pasta. Fresh pasta has a tender, delicate texture that complements the creamy mushroom sauce beautifully.
• Add Extra Herbs for Flavor: Fresh thyme is a great addition to the sauce, but you can also experiment with other herbs, such as rosemary, basil, or oregano, to enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant, aromatic quality to the dish.
• Balance the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream and substitute it with half-and-half or milk. Alternatively, for a richer sauce, add a bit more cream or even some mascarpone cheese.

Variations of Tagliatelle with Mushrooms

• Tagliatelle with Mushrooms and Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach leaves to the skillet when cooking the mushrooms. The spinach will wilt down and add a burst of color and nutrients to the dish.
• Tagliatelle with Mushrooms and Truffle Oil: Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the finished dish for a luxurious, earthy flavor. The truffle oil complements the mushrooms and elevates the overall taste of the dish.
• Tagliatelle with Mushrooms and Chicken: For a more substantial meal, add some sautéed chicken breast or thigh pieces to the dish. The chicken adds extra protein and makes the dish more filling.
• Tagliatelle with Mushrooms and Bacon: If you enjoy a bit of smokiness, cook some crispy bacon and crumble it over the top of the dish before serving. The bacon adds a delightful contrast to the creamy mushrooms and pasta.

Storage and Shelf Life

Tagliatelle with Mushrooms is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the mushroom sauce (without the pasta) for up to 3 months, and then cook fresh pasta to serve with the sauce when you’re ready.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Tagliatelle with Mushrooms

To complete your meal, consider pairing Tagliatelle with Mushrooms with one or more of the following:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy mushroom sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, a light vinaigrette, and some cherry tomatoes adds freshness and balance to the rich pasta dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, provide a healthy and flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy mushrooms and pasta.
• Red Wine: A glass of red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Chianti, complements the earthy mushrooms and rich cream sauce, making the meal even more indulgent.

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Conclusion

Tagliatelle with Mushrooms is a comforting, delicious, and sophisticated dish that is perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and earthy mushrooms create a satisfying combination that will leave you craving more. With its quick preparation time and ability to be customized with different herbs, vegetables, and proteins, this dish is both versatile and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for guests, Tagliatelle with Mushrooms is a simple yet elegant choice that is sure to impress. Enjoy this mouthwatering dish and savor every bite!