Tender farfalle pasta tossed with sautéed mushrooms in a velvety garlic cream sauce—simple, earthy, and comforting, this one-pan dish brings rich, umami flavors to the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, it’s a satisfying vegetarian pasta that feels both rustic and refined.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy mushroom farfalle pasta is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The mushrooms lend a deep, savory richness, while the garlic cream sauce brings balance and indulgence. Farfalle, with its ridged surface and butterfly shape, holds the sauce beautifully. The entire dish comes together quickly with pantry staples, making it ideal for last-minute meals that don’t sacrifice on flavor or elegance.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz (225g) farfalle pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the farfalle in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked farfalle to the skillet and toss to combine. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a crack of black pepper. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for a heartier version.
• Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free cream, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Add Greens: Toss in baby spinach or kale just before serving for added color and nutrients.
• Wine Flavor: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the cream.
• Different Pasta: Penne, fusilli, or tagliatelle can be used if farfalle is unavailable.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through. Avoid microwaving on high, as it may cause the cream to separate.

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can change texture upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes, cremini, button, portobello, or even a wild mushroom mix will work beautifully in this recipe.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as written, provided the Parmesan used is vegetarian-certified.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For best results, stick with heavy cream or half-and-half.

What can I use instead of Parmesan?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good substitutes. For a nutty twist, nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free option.

Does the thyme have to be included?

No, thyme is optional. It adds an earthy note but can be omitted or replaced with oregano or rosemary.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, keep the pasta and sauce separate and combine just before serving.

What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish nicely.

How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add reserved pasta water gradually as needed to adjust the sauce consistency during the final toss.

Is farfalle the best pasta shape for this dish?

Farfalle works well due to its surface area and shape, but any short or ridged pasta can be used.

Can I serve this cold as a pasta salad?

This dish is best served warm, but leftovers can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature if desired.

Conclusion

Creamy mushroom farfalle pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers rich, comforting flavors in every bite. With its earthy mushrooms, velvety garlic cream sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a satisfying meal you’ll turn to time and again. Whether you serve it as a main or a side, it’s sure to please any crowd with its balance of simplicity and indulgence.

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