Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Pasta
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Pasta is a comforting, restaurant-quality dish that comes together in just 30 minutes! Earthy mushrooms, tender asparagus, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce coat every bite of pasta for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights but elegant enough for a special occasion
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (crimini or button)
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, thyme, and oregano)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt & black pepper to taste
½ tsp lemon zest (optional, for freshness)
For Garnish:
Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Saute the Vegetables:
1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic, and saute until soft and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
3. Add mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
4. Add asparagus and cook for another 2 minutes until just tender but still bright green.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
1. Pour in broth and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
2. Lower the heat and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine Everything:
1. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
2. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
3. Stir in lemon zest (if using) for extra freshness.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
1. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
2. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fats: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Notes & Tips
Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Make it Vegan: Use coconut cream or cashew cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
Boost Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.