There’s something magical about a simple bowl of pasta—warm, comforting, and satisfying in a way that few other meals can match. If you’re craving a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is the perfect choice. This creamy, savory pasta combines earthy cremini mushrooms with velvety ricotta and a hint of Parmesan, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s a dish that’s elegant enough for dinner guests but simple enough for a weeknight meal.
I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something quick, flavorful, and vegetarian-friendly. The combination of mushrooms sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and a creamy ricotta sauce felt indulgent without being heavy. Each bite offers a balance of textures: tender pasta, soft mushrooms, and the smooth, cheesy sauce that ties it all together. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Whether you’re a mushroom lover or just in need of a quick pasta dinner, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every forkful.
Recipe Overview
Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is a quick, no-fuss pasta dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a creamy ricotta-Parmesan sauce. Cooked pasta is tossed with the sauce and a bit of reserved pasta water for a silky texture. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights, cozy dinners, or when you want a creamy, vegetarian-friendly meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to make this creamy, savory pasta.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. The reserved water will help loosen the sauce later and ensure the pasta is perfectly coated.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden brown and tender, about 6–8 minutes. The mushrooms release their moisture and develop a rich, earthy flavor during this step.
3. Add Garlic
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Garlic enhances the savory depth of the mushrooms and complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. This will form the base of your pasta sauce.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms. Gently fold in the ricotta mixture, combining until the pasta is evenly coated.
6. Adjust Consistency
Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The starchy water helps create a silky, smooth coating on the pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to plates or a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Tip: For extra richness, drizzle a little olive oil over the top or add a small dollop of ricotta to each serving.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Cheese Options
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Mix ricotta with mascarpone for an ultra-creamy texture.
2. Protein Boost
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu to turn it into a heartier meal.
3. Extra Flavor
- Finish with a splash of white wine while sautéing mushrooms for added depth.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
4. Pasta Choices
- This recipe works well with long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, as well as short pasta like penne or rigatoni.
5. Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the mushrooms and prepare the ricotta mixture in advance. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for a fast weeknight dinner.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of pasta water to maintain creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a side of sautéed spinach for added nutrition.
Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is a simple yet elegant pasta dish that’s creamy, comforting, and full of flavor. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, while its richness and depth of flavor are impressive enough for guests. The earthy mushrooms, garlicky notes, and silky ricotta-Parmesan sauce create a satisfying combination that’s both vegetarian-friendly and utterly delicious.
With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Every bite is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying—making it a go-to dish for pasta lovers everywhere.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of mushroom?
Yes! Cremini mushrooms work best for their earthy flavor, but button mushrooms, shiitake, or portobello slices are great alternatives.
2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
3. How do I keep the sauce creamy?
Reserve some pasta water and add it gradually to the ricotta mixture to achieve a silky consistency.
4. Can I prepare this in advance?
Cook the mushrooms and mix the ricotta sauce ahead of time. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
5. Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes make excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Creamy Mushroom Ricotta Pasta with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan. Quick, vegetarian-friendly, and ready in under 30 minutes for a cozy, flavorful meal.
