Indulge your taste buds in a delightful culinary experience with our Creamy Mushroom and Ricotta Pasta! This Italian-inspired dish is the perfect blend of creamy richness and earthy flavors, making it an irresistible choice for any pasta lover. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor every bite as you discover the secrets to creating this creamy, dreamy pasta dish that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
- Reduce heat to low and add ricotta cheese to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the mushroom and ricotta mixture. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot, offering additional Parmesan cheese at the table if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne that hold onto the creamy sauce well.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Adding salt to the boiling water is crucial; it enhances the pasta's flavor and ensures a delicious base for your dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Mushrooms: Make sure to let the mushrooms brown properly for that deep, savory flavor. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure they cook evenly.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot, so make sure to serve it right after cooking for the ultimate experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
