Tagliatelle with Wild Mushrooms and Cream Sauce

Tagliatelle with Wild Mushrooms and Cream Sauce is a classic, elegant pasta dish that highlights the earthy depth of mushrooms paired with silky, luxurious cream. Originating from Northern Italian cooking traditions, this recipe celebrates simplicity and high-quality ingredients.

Wide ribbons of tagliatelle are perfect for holding onto the rich sauce, while a mix of wild mushrooms adds layers of flavor—nutty, savory, and slightly sweet. Whether served for a cozy weeknight dinner or an intimate dinner party, this dish feels restaurant-worthy yet comforting, making it a timeless favorite for pasta lovers.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s rich yet refined, comforting without being heavy. The mushrooms bring a deep umami flavor that balances beautifully with the cream sauce, and the dish comes together quickly with minimal ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent but still simple and honest.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Italian comfort with gourmet appeal
• Deep, earthy mushroom flavor
• Creamy sauce that coats pasta perfectly
• Easy to prepare yet elegant
• Vegetarian-friendly and versatile

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (approx.): 560 kcal per serving

Ingredients

Pasta

• 12 oz tagliatelle pasta

Mushroom Cream Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 oz mixed wild mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, oyster), sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley, chopped

Cooking Directions (Quick Method)

1. Cook tagliatelle until al dente.
2. Sauté mushrooms until golden.
3. Add cream and simmer sauce.
4. Toss pasta with sauce and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tagliatelle until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion or shallot and cook until soft.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Cook Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 2–3 minutes to allow browning, then stir and cook until golden.
5. Deglaze: Pour in vegetable broth and simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Add Cream: Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
7. Season: Add salt, pepper, and herbs.
8. Combine: Add cooked pasta to sauce, tossing gently. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
9. Finish: Stir in Parmesan cheese and remove from heat.

How to Serve

Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread. This dish also pairs beautifully with a light white wine.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcrowd mushrooms—cook in batches if needed
• Use a mix of mushrooms for depth of flavor
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
• Freshly grated Parmesan gives best flavor

Variations

1. Truffle Mushroom Tagliatelle

Add a drizzle of truffle oil before serving for a luxurious touch.

2. Vegan Mushroom Pasta

Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

3. Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

Add fresh spinach at the end for extra color and nutrition.

4. Mushroom and Chicken Version

Add sautéed chicken slices for added protein.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well; freezing not recommended.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or tongs
• Cheese grater

Conclusion

Tagliatelle with Wild Mushrooms and Cream Sauce is a timeless Italian-inspired dish that blends elegance with comfort. With its earthy mushrooms, silky cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a recipe that feels special yet approachable. Ideal for both everyday dinners and special occasions, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your pasta rotation.