Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Brown Butter Mushroom Pasta is a rich and savory dish that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the nutty, caramelized goodness of brown butter. The pasta is coated in a silky, fragrant sauce that’s simple yet luxurious. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any occasion, and the depth of flavor makes it a standout dish, whether for a weeknight dinner or a special meal.

ingredients

8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 lb mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the brown butter and mushrooms. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Season with salt and pepper, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
If you want a creamier sauce, add the heavy cream and toss until fully combined.
Serve with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for garnish.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
Try using different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a varied texture and flavor.
For a lighter version, skip the heavy cream and just use the pasta water to make a sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Brown Butter Mushroom Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use any type of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use any type of mushrooms you prefer, but a combination of mushrooms will give you a more complex flavor.

Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this pasta is vegetarian, but it does contain dairy. You can make it vegan by using plant-based butter and skipping the Parmesan.

Can I make this ahead of time?
While the pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the mushroom and brown butter sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any type of pasta will work, but longer noodles like fettuccine or spaghetti pair especially well with the rich brown butter sauce.

Conclusion

Brown Butter Mushroom Pasta is an easy yet indulgent dish that combines simple ingredients into a deliciously satisfying meal. The depth of flavor from the brown butter and earthy mushrooms makes this recipe a go-to favorite for pasta lovers. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining, this dish will impress with its rich taste and comforting texture.