Quick recipes with pasta and mushrooms
Got pasta and mushrooms and not sure what to make? Here are 8 easy dinners you can cook tonight. Each one keeps to everyday ingredients and a single skillet or sheet pan where possible, with rough prep and cook times so you can pick by how much time you have. Prefer to cook with exactly what's on your shelf? Tell Cache & Cook what you have and it drafts a recipe free.
Brown Butter Pasta with Crispy Mushrooms and Sage
20 min Serves 4weeknightitalianvegetarian
Creamy Lemon Pasta with Sautéed Mushrooms and Fresh Thyme
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianlight
Fiery Garlic Mushroom Pasta with Red Pepper Flakes
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianbold
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta with Thyme
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianone-pan
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta with Crispy Sage
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetariancomfort-food
Garlic & Lemon Pasta with Crispy Mushrooms
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianitalian-inspired
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pappardelle with Thyme
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetariancomfort-food
Garlic-Butter Pasta with Pan-Seared Mushrooms and Fresh Parsley
15 min Serves 2weeknightitalianlight
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Common questions
- Can I use frozen mushrooms instead of fresh for pasta dishes?
- Yes, frozen mushrooms work well in pasta sauces, though they're more watery so sauté them longer to evaporate excess moisture. Thaw them first and squeeze out liquid, or use them straight from frozen and cook a few minutes longer.
- What's the quickest way to cook mushrooms for pasta?
- Slice mushrooms thinly and cook them in a hot pan with butter or oil over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and any released liquid has evaporated. Don't stir constantly—let them sit for a minute or two between stirs to develop color.
- How long can I store leftover pasta with mushroom sauce?
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to restore the sauce consistency. If you prefer to freeze it, it keeps for up to 2 months, though the mushroom texture may soften slightly.
- Can I substitute expensive mushroom varieties with cheaper ones?
- Absolutely—cremini, portobello, and button mushrooms are affordable and flavorful in pasta dishes, though pricier varieties like shiitake or porcini add deeper umami. Mix a small amount of expensive mushrooms with budget-friendly ones to get rich flavor without breaking the bank.
- What protein should I serve with mushroom pasta to make it a complete meal?
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or a dollop of ricotta cheese all pair well and add protein, or simply serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a lighter option. If you want vegetarian protein, white beans or chickpeas stirred into the sauce work great.