If you’re seeking a luxurious yet simple pasta dish, look no further than this Rich and Creamy Wild Mushroom Pappardelle. The earthy flavors of wild mushrooms are elevated by caramelization, creating a deeply savory sauce that clings beautifully to wide ribbons of pappardelle. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering both elegance and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pappardelle pasta
- 1 lb (450g) mixed wild mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pappardelle pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.
Step 2: Caramelize the Mushrooms
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper. Caramelizing enhances their rich, earthy flavor, making them the star of this dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, infusing the mushrooms with a delightful depth of flavor.
Step 4: Deglaze with Broth
Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the broth to simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly. This step adds complexity to the sauce, incorporating the rich, caramelized flavors from the mushrooms.
Step 5: Add Cream and Thyme
Stir in the heavy cream and fresh thyme leaves, allowing the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The cream creates a luscious, velvety texture, while the thyme adds a fresh, aromatic note that pairs perfectly with the mushrooms.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pappardelle to the skillet, tossing it gently to ensure each ribbon is well-coated with the creamy mushroom sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps bind the sauce, making it smooth and silky.
Step 7: Serve
Plate the Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pappardelle hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a touch of chopped parsley. The Parmesan adds a savory umami punch, while the parsley provides a fresh and vibrant finish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Enjoy this rich and creamy wild mushroom pappardelle, a dish that brings together the earthy depth of caramelized mushrooms with the smooth elegance of a cream-based sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this pasta promises to impress with every bite.