One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Featured in: One-Pot Comforts

This one-pot creamy mushroom pasta combines tender mushrooms, minced garlic, and fresh thyme with pasta simmered in vegetable broth. Finished with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, this dish delivers a rich, comforting flavor with minimal cleanup. Easy to prepare in about 30 minutes, it's perfect for a satisfying vegetarian main course. Garnish with parsley and extra cheese for added freshness and depth.

Updated on Mon, 10 Nov 2025 15:21:00 GMT
Creamy Mushroom Pasta simmered with garlic and fresh thyme for a rich taste.  Save to Pinterest
Creamy Mushroom Pasta simmered with garlic and fresh thyme for a rich taste. | messlitreats.com

A comforting, creamy pasta dish brimming with earthy mushrooms, garlic, and a hint of thyme all cooked together in one pot for ease and rich flavor.

I often make this creamy mushroom pasta when I want something warm and satisfying that comes together quickly and delights everyone at the table.

Ingredients

  • Pasta & Mushrooms: 350 g (12 oz) penne or fettuccine, 400 g (14 oz) mixed mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or shiitake), 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Aromatics: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
  • Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth, 125 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 60 ml (¼ cup) dry white wine (optional)
  • Dairy & Seasoning: 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1:
Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 23 minutes until softened.
Step 2:
Add the garlic, thyme, and mushrooms. Sauté for 56 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
Step 3:
Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook for 12 minutes until mostly evaporated.
Step 4:
Add the pasta, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Step 5:
Reduce the heat to medium low, cover, and simmer for 1012 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6:
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 23 minutes more until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta.
Step 7:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
A delicious One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese.  Save to Pinterest
A delicious One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese. | messlitreats.com

My family loves sitting down to this dish on busy weeknights; the creamy sauce and mushrooms always bring smiles.

Notes

Pair with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio for a delightful meal experience.

Required Tools

Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, Wooden spoon, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Contains Dairy (Parmesan cheese, heavy cream), Wheat (pasta). For gluten free, use gluten free pasta. Always check ingredient labels to ensure product safety.

Elegant One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta showcasing earthy flavors and creamy texture, perfect dinner. Save to Pinterest
Elegant One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta showcasing earthy flavors and creamy texture, perfect dinner. | messlitreats.com

This creamy mushroom pasta is the perfect quick comfort meal that never fails to impress.

Common Recipe Questions

What types of mushrooms are best for this dish?

Mixed mushrooms like cremini, button, or shiitake provide earthiness and texture, enhancing the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?

Yes, you can use plant-based cream or coconut cream for a lighter or vegan alternative without compromising creaminess.

Is white wine necessary in the cooking process?

White wine adds subtle depth but is optional; you can omit it without losing the dish’s overall flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

What side dishes pair well with this creamy mushroom pasta?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement this rich dish, balancing flavors and textures nicely.

Can additional vegetables be added?

Yes, spinach or peas added in the final minutes provide extra nutrition and color without affecting cooking time.

One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Creamy pasta with mushrooms, garlic, and thyme prepared in one pot for simplicity and rich taste.

Prep Duration
10 min
Cooking Duration
20 min
Overall Duration
30 min
Created by messli Sophie Lane


Skill Required Easy

Cuisine Origin Italian-Inspired

Portion Yield 4 People served

Diet Preferences Meat-Free

List of Ingredients

Pasta & Mushrooms

01 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
02 14 oz mixed sliced mushrooms (cremini, button, or shiitake)
03 2 tbsp olive oil

Aromatics

01 1 medium onion, finely chopped
02 3 cloves garlic, minced
03 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or ½ tsp dried thyme

Liquids

01 3 cups vegetable broth
02 ½ cup heavy cream
03 ¼ cup dry white wine (optional)

Dairy & Seasoning

01 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
02 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Garnish

01 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 01

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.

Step 02

Cook Mushrooms and Herbs: Add minced garlic, thyme, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are browned and tender.

Step 03

Deglaze with Wine: Pour in dry white wine if using, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until mostly evaporated.

Step 04

Combine Pasta and Broth: Add pasta, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 05

Simmer Pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 06

Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta evenly.

Step 07

Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Warnings

Check all listed ingredients for allergens. Reach out to a healthcare provider if you aren't sure.
  • Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese, heavy cream) and wheat (pasta). Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Always verify product labels for allergens.

Nutrition per serving

Nutritional details are just for your reference. Always talk to a doctor for specific health advice.
  • Energy (Calories): 480
  • Fats: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 62 g
  • Proteins: 15 g