Creamy Roasted Garlic & Mushroom Pasta

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Creamy roasted garlic and mushroom pasta served in a bowl with parsley garnish

WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE

Creamy Roasted Garlic & Mushroom Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and savory mushrooms in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves indulgent meals that are both comforting and satisfying. Whether you are preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for friends and family, this pasta dish is sure to impress. The blend of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta, while the roasted garlic adds a sweet and mellow flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it includes nutritious ingredients like baby spinach, making it a well-rounded meal.

HOW TO MAKE Creamy Roasted Garlic & Mushroom Pasta

Ingredients

  • 3 heads garlic, (about 24-30 cloves)
  • 1 medium red onion, (finely diced)
  • 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, (sliced)
  • 2 cups (60 g) baby spinach
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, (optional)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, (cubed, softened)
  • 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
  • 8 ounces cavatappi pasta, (cooked al dente, drained, reserving 1 cup of pasta water)
  • ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, (plus more for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, (chopped, for garnish)

DIRECTIONS

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Peel away the loose, papery layers from each head of garlic, keeping the heads intact. Slice about ¼ inch off the top to expose the garlic cloves. Set aside.
  3. In a large (12-inch) oven-safe skillet, add the diced red onion, sliced mushrooms, and baby spinach.
  4. Nestle the garlic heads, cut side up, into the center of the skillet.
  5. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over everything, making sure the garlic and vegetables are well coated. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
  6. Add the cubed cream cheese throughout the pan and pour the heavy cream over the mixture.
  7. Cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 50 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes, until the mushrooms are golden and the garlic is very soft.
  9. Remove the skillet from the oven. Carefully squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins directly into the skillet, then discard the skins.
  10. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and everything is smooth and creamy.
  11. Add the cooked pasta and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Gently stir until the pasta is coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little of the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. (I used ¼ cup pasta water.)
  12. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

HOW TO SERVE Creamy Roasted Garlic & Mushroom Pasta

This dish is best served warm right after cooking. Serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter. To make the meal even more special, you can sprinkle extra Parmesan on top and add freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This creamy pasta is filling on its own, so it can serve as a main dish that even non-pasta lovers will enjoy!

HOW TO STORE Creamy Roasted Garlic & Mushroom Pasta

To store any leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If needed, you can add a little more cream or reserved pasta water to bring back its creamy texture.

TIPS TO MAKE Creamy Roasted Garlic & Mushroom Pasta

  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and vegetables make a big difference in flavor.
  • Don’t skip roasting the garlic: Roasting the garlic makes it sweet and soft, which enhances the dish.
  • Adjust the creaminess: Depending on your preference, you can add more heavy cream or pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness.
  • Add protein: If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp pair well with this dish.
  • Experiment with herbs: Basil or thyme can bring additional flavor to the pasta if desired.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to alter this recipe to suit your taste. You can try different types of pasta like penne or fettuccine. For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. You can also switch up the veggies—add some bell peppers, zucchini, or even some sun-dried tomatoes for different textures and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Yes! While baby bella mushrooms are great for this recipe, you can also use button mushrooms, cremini, or even shiitake mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the roasted garlic and mushroom mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, just heat it up, mix in the pasta and cream, and serve.

Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, Creamy Roasted Garlic & Mushroom Pasta is vegetarian as it does not contain any meat. However, be sure to check the Parmesan cheese for any animal rennet if you need it to be strictly vegetarian.