Garlic Butter Mushroom Pappardelle

Byarlo Jack

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pappardelle is the ultimate pasta dish for mushroom lovers and anyone craving a comforting, flavorful meal. Wide pappardelle noodles coated in a garlicky butter sauce, paired with earthy, sautéed mushrooms, create a rich and satisfying dish that feels indulgent without being heavy. Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when you want a cozy, restaurant-quality pasta at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is simple yet luxurious. The combination of butter, garlic, and mushrooms delivers deep umami flavor, while pappardelle noodles hold the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is luscious and satisfying. It’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be customized with cream, fresh herbs, or Parmesan for extra indulgence.

Nutritional Info

While indulgent due to butter, this dish provides protein from mushrooms and essential nutrients like potassium, selenium, and B vitamins. Using whole-grain or gluten-free pappardelle can add fiber and make it more nutritious. A moderate serving balances indulgence with a wholesome, comforting meal.

Time Taken

Total time: approximately 25–30 minutes

  • Prep: 10 minutes
  • Cook: 15–20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pappardelle pasta
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 12 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini, shiitake, or button)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  4. Toss the cooked pappardelle into the skillet with mushrooms. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a silky sauce that coats the noodles.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese if desired and mix until well combined.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving hot.

You Must Know

Using a combination of butter and olive oil prevents the butter from burning while giving rich flavor. Don’t overcook the mushrooms—they should be golden brown and flavorful. Reserving pasta water is key to creating a creamy sauce without cream.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This dish is best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Swap pappardelle for fettuccine, tagliatelle, or linguine.
  • Use vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version.
  • Add cream or a splash of white wine for a richer sauce.
  • Mix in spinach, arugula, or sun-dried tomatoes for added freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a crisp green salad and a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Pair with roasted chicken or grilled tofu for added protein.
  • Drizzle with truffle oil for an extra luxurious touch.

Seasonal Adaptations

  • Fall/Winter: Include roasted root vegetables or wild mushrooms for earthy depth.
  • Spring/Summer: Add fresh peas or asparagus for brightness and color.
  • Year-round: Adjust herbs and toppings based on availability, such as basil, thyme, or sage.

Success Stories

Home cooks love this recipe for its simplicity and rich, comforting flavor. Many say it’s a go-to weeknight dinner that impresses without requiring complicated ingredients or techniques. Its creamy, garlicky mushroom sauce has earned praise as a “restaurant-quality meal at home.”

Pro Tips

  • Cook mushrooms in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding—they brown better in smaller amounts.
  • Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce and ensure it clings to the noodles.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Chef’s Special Tips

  • Add a splash of white wine while sautéing mushrooms for extra depth.
  • Finish with a small knob of butter just before serving to enhance silkiness.
  • Garnish with microgreens or fresh thyme for a gourmet presentation.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pappardelle is the perfect blend of rich, savory flavor and comforting texture. Easy to make yet elegant, it’s ideal for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a special meal for guests. Try this recipe tonight and indulge in the creamy, garlicky, mushroom-filled goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use olive oil or vegan butter and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Can I use other pasta types?
Absolutely—fettuccine, tagliatelle, or linguine work well.

How do I keep the mushrooms from getting soggy?
Cook them over medium-high heat without overcrowding, allowing moisture to evaporate and the mushrooms to brown.

Can I add protein?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu pairs perfectly with this pasta.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Prepare the mushrooms in advance, but toss with pasta and sauce just before serving to maintain texture.

Is it possible to make it creamier?
Yes, add a splash of heavy cream, coconut cream, or extra Parmesan cheese while tossing the pasta.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Reserve some pasta water and toss the noodles immediately with the mushroom sauce.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, spinach, arugula, roasted peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes complement the dish beautifully.