Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta

Name: Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 head of garlic; 2 tbsp olive oil; 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or shiitake), sliced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta when I need a comforting, delicious meal that comes together quickly. The combination of roasted garlic and earthy mushrooms creates a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate. I often turn to this recipe when entertaining guests, as it not only looks elegant but brings warmth to the table. Every bite feels rich and indulgent, making it a go-to dish for both cozy nights in and celebratory gatherings.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:16:15.311Z

When I first made Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta, I didn’t expect it would become one of my favorite weeknight dinners. The secret is in the garlic; roasting it mellows the flavor and creates a creamy texture that'll have you craving more. Pairing it with appropriately cooked pasta ensures every strand is coated perfectly in that luscious sauce.

I've experimented with different mushrooms, and while cremini and shiitake deliver robust flavors, I find that a mix adds complexity. The key is to sauté the mushrooms until they're golden brown, enhancing their umami profile. Trust me; the aroma alone will draw everyone to the kitchen!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously creamy roasted garlic sauce that elevates every bite
Rich, earthy flavor from perfectly sautéed mushrooms
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for any night of the week

      

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

When making Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta, the choice of mushrooms can significantly influence the dish's flavor profile. Cremini mushrooms are a great all-rounder with a mild, nutty taste that complements the roasted garlic beautifully. Shiitake mushrooms, on the other hand, add an earthy depth and a unique umami character that can elevate the entire meal. If you're feeling adventurous, try a mix of both for a complexity of flavors. Just make sure to clean them properly, brushing off the dirt instead of washing them under water to preserve their natural texture.

Mushrooms release a lot of moisture during cooking, which can impact the dish's creaminess. To prevent this, ensure you're sautéing them on medium-high heat, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust, approximately 5-7 minutes. If you notice the skillet steaming too much, raise the heat slightly to encourage effective evaporation. This technique not only enhances their flavor but also contributes to a better texture in the final pasta dish.

Perfecting the Garlic Roasting

Roasting garlic transforms its sharpness into a sweet, mellow flavor that enriches this pasta. Depending on the size of your garlic head, roasting can vary slightly, but aiming for around 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C) usually does the trick. Look for a soft, caramelized appearance of the cloves as a sign that they are ready to be squeezed into your pasta. If they’re still firm, give them an additional 5 minutes, checking to avoid burning for a perfect balance of flavors.

For a deeper flavor experience, consider adding a sprig of thyme or rosemary to the foil wrap while roasting the garlic. The herbs will infuse the garlic with their aromatic qualities, enhancing the overall dish. Once roasted, allow the garlic to cool slightly before handling; it should easily squeeze out of the skins, transforming your sauce into a velvety, fragrant delight.

Serving and Variations

For serving, don’t hesitate to enhance your Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of toasted pine nuts for added texture and richness. You can also drizzle a bit of good quality extra virgin olive oil over the top for an appealing finish. I love to serve this dish with a crisp side salad or garlic bread, making it feel more like a complete meal that pairs beautifully with a light white wine.

If you're looking to mix things up, consider adding other ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavors. Both of these add-ins not only contribute visually to the dish but also boost the nutritional content. For a vegan version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative. This way, you can enjoy a similar creamy texture without dairy, ensuring that everyone at your table can indulge.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your culinary adventure:

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine pasta
1 head of garlic
2 tbsp olive oil
8 oz mushrooms (cremini or shiitake), sliced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Having everything handy makes the cooking process smooth and delightful!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful dish:

Roasting the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with a little olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast for 30 minutes. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves into a bowl.

Cooking the Pasta

While the garlic is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sautéing the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Making the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, add the roasted garlic to the mushrooms, and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes before adding the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Combining Everything

Add the drained fettuccine to the garlic mushroom sauce, tossing gently to coat. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Serving

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Now you can sit back and enjoy your flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

Try adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor. Also, experimenting with different herbs can enhance the dish further.

Make-Ahead Tips

Though this Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. The roasted garlic can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This handy technique not only saves time but also allows the garlic flavors to deepen. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before incorporating it into the dish for an ideal creamy consistency.

You can also sauté the mushrooms and prepare the sauce ahead, storing them in the refrigerator for up to two days. When it’s time to eat, simply reheat the sautéed mushrooms and sauce in a large skillet over medium heat, adding the cooked fettuccine and any reserved pasta water to bring it all together in no time.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe serves about four, but it’s easy to scale up or down depending on your needs. To double the recipe, just ensure you have a large enough pot for the pasta and a correspondingly sized skillet for the sauce. Be mindful that the timing may vary slightly, especially during the sautéing process, as overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than sautéing. Aim for an even distribution of ingredients for that coveted, rich flavor in every bite.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, halving the ingredients is a straightforward adjustment. Just keep the cooking times in mind; you may roast a smaller garlic head for perfection and check your sauce consistency as you go. Smaller portions can be equally delightful and allow you to tailor the flavors to fit your personal preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The cooking instructions remain the same.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. You can also sauté mushrooms in vegan butter.

→ What type of mushrooms work best?

While I recommend cremini or shiitake for their rich flavors, feel free to mix in your favorites like button or oyster mushrooms.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce loose.