Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan

Ingredients

• •12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
• •2 tablespoons olive oil
• •2 tablespoons butter
• •4 cloves garlic, minced
• •1 pound cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• •1/2 teaspoon salt
• •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• •1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth (optional)
• •1 cup heavy cream
• •1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• •1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• •1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to the package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

2. 2

   Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. 3

   Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add the sliced mushrooms, salt, and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and are tender.

5. 5

   If using white wine or chicken broth, pour it into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

6. 6

   Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to heat through but not boil.

7. 7

   Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

8. 8

   If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

9. 9

   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy mushroom sauce.

10. 10

    Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.

11. 11

    Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.