Few things are as comforting as a bowl of pasta drenched in a luxurious, creamy sauce. If you're a fan of Alfredo but want to take it up a notch, this mushroom Alfredo sauce is just what you need. The earthy depth of mushrooms combined with the rich, velvety texture of Alfredo creates a decadent experience that pairs beautifully with everything from fettuccine to penne.
Mushroom Alfredo Sauce
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Condiment
Cuisine American, Italian
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional, for warmth
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Sauté the mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the mushrooms
Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
Add the dairy
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
Melt the cheese
Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until it melts into the sauce and creates a smooth, creamy consistency.
Season the sauce
Stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Serve and garnish
Pour over freshly cooked pasta, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and enjoy!
Pairings
This creamy mushroom sauce pairs beautifully with fettuccine, linguine, or even gnocchi. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp. If you're serving it with a side, a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread make excellent accompaniments. A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the dish perfectly.
FAQs
1. What kind of mushrooms should I use?
Cremini, button, or baby bella mushrooms are excellent choices for this mushroom sauce recipe. If you want a bolder flavor, try shiitake or porcini.
2. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
3. What’s the best pasta for this sauce?
Fettuccine is the classic choice for mushroom Alfredo sauce, but penne, rigatoni, or pappardelle also work well.
4. Can I make this without dairy?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil, the cream with coconut milk, and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version of creamy mushroom sauce.
