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: 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 1 head of garlic; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 8 ounces of mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced; ½ cup of heavy cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love the aroma that fills my kitchen when I prepare Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta. It's a dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the rich flavor of roasted garlic, creating a simple yet indulgent meal. The best part is how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for weeknights or impressing guests. I often enjoy it with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience. Join me as I share the magic of this delightful pasta dish!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:04:40.407Z

When I first experimented with roasting garlic for this pasta, I was blown away by the depth of flavor it added. While sautéing mushrooms can be delightful, the roasted garlic truly elevates the dish, offering a sweet, mellow note that perfectly complements the umami of the mushrooms. The key is to roast the garlic until it’s golden and soft, which balances the dish beautifully.

Another tip I discovered along the way is to use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. They add a burst of brightness that cuts through the richness of the pasta. I often like to finish it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for that extra touch of savory goodness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor combined with earthy mushrooms
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
Perfectly creamy sauce without heavy ingredients

      

The Power of Roasted Garlic

Roasting the garlic is the key to achieving that deep, sweet flavor that elevates this pasta dish. By wrapping the garlic in foil and roasting it, you not only soften the cloves but also transform their pungency into a mellow richness that blends beautifully with the mushrooms. Make sure to keep an eye on the garlic as it roasts; you want it to be golden and soft, which typically takes around 30 minutes in a 400°F oven.

The garlic's natural oils are released during roasting, making it easier to squeeze from their skins. Once you combine the roasted garlic with the sautéed mushrooms, you’ll notice how it creates a fragrant base for the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. Don't skip this step; it's what makes this dish truly luxurious!

Choosing the Right Pasta and Mushrooms

For Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta, I recommend using spaghetti or fettuccine. These types of pasta hold onto the creamy sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Opt for a high-quality pasta brand to enhance the texture, as a richer mouthfeel pairs better with the creamy components. Cook the pasta until al dente, which usually means slightly firm to the bite, ensuring it won’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

As for the mushrooms, cremini or button mushrooms are the best choices due to their earthy flavors. Cremini mushrooms, in particular, have a deeper flavor profile that complements the roasted garlic beautifully. If you’d like to add more texture, consider mixing in some shiitake or portobello mushrooms. Make sure they're fresh and firm to the touch; this assures the best flavor and texture in your finished dish.

Tips for Making the Sauce

When adding the heavy cream, stirring gently over medium-low heat allows it to incorporate seamlessly into the dish without curdling. If the sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. This water contains starch, which helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta while adding a glossy finish. Aim for a creamy texture that easily clings to the noodles but isn’t overly soupy.

For an added depth of flavor, consider finishing the dish with a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms, allowing it to cook down before adding the heavy cream. This trick not only intensifies the flavor complexity but also adds acidity, which balances the richness of the cream. I also love to garnish with fresh parsley not just for color, but for a touch of freshness that brightens the entire dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta:

Ingredients

8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
1 head of garlic
2 tablespoons of olive oil
8 ounces of mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
½ cup of heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

With your ingredients ready, you’re just moments away from enjoying this pasta!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta:

Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast for 30 minutes until soft and golden.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook accordingly to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Everything

Once the garlic is roasted, squeeze the cloves into the skillet with mushrooms. Add heavy cream and cooked pasta, mixing well. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Serve

Plate the pasta, sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!

Your plate of Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta is ready to be devoured!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms while they sauté. Also, feel free to swap out the mushrooms for your favorite varieties, such as shiitake or portobello.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the roasted garlic and sautéed mushrooms separately. The roasted garlic can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before combining it with the mushrooms and pasta. This saves time on busy nights without sacrificing flavor.

For leftovers, store any uneaten pasta in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to avoid drying out when warming it up on the stovetop. Note that pasta tends to absorb sauce over time, so adding additional cream will restore its original creamy texture.

Variations to Explore

You can easily customize this Roasted Garlic Mushroom Pasta to suit your dietary preferences. Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based option like coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan version. The flavors may be slightly different, but the essence of the dish will still be there, and you won’t miss the dairy.

For an extra kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the mushrooms or finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving. This will add warmth and brightness to contrast the creamy sauce. Other additions like spinach or kale can boost the nutritional value while adding a vibrant color to your dish!

Common Issues and Fixes

One common issue when making creamy sauces is curdling, which can occur if the cream is added to high heat or if it's a low-fat version. To avoid this, always introduce cream into the dish on low heat and allow it to warm gradually after incorporating the roasted garlic and mushrooms. It's crucial for achieving that smooth and luscious sauce we want.

Another potential issue is overcooked pasta. Always check the serving instructions on the package and test for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time to prevent it from becoming mushy. If you do accidentally overcook it slightly, incorporating the sauce quickly can help salvage the texture by coating the noodles before they become overly soft.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use garlic powder instead of roasted garlic?

While garlic powder can add flavor, it won't provide the same sweetness and depth as fresh roasted garlic.

→ Can I make this pasta vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based pasta and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan option.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would make great additions.