Name: Mushroom Ricotta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb (450g) cremini mushrooms, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup pasta water, reserved; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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This Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is the perfect blend of earthy mushrooms and creamy ricotta cheese, creating a dish that’s rich, savory, and comforting. The mushrooms add a delightful umami flavor, while the ricotta brings a velvety texture that coats every strand of pasta beautifully. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish not only looks appetizing but also bursts with flavors in every bite. What makes this recipe even more appealing is how quick and simple it is to prepare. In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a satisfying, restaurant-quality pasta right at home. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this creamy mushroom pasta will leave everyone wanting seconds!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (450g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pasta water, reserved
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are golden and softened.
Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with mushrooms, then fold in the ricotta mixture.
Slowly add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Stir well to coat the pasta evenly, adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Allure of Mushroom Ricotta Pasta

Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is a timeless dish that beautifully marries the earthiness of mushrooms with the creamy indulgence of ricotta cheese. Originating from Italian culinary traditions, this pasta is an ideal choice for those who love the comforting flavors of a creamy pasta but are looking for something unique and satisfying. Unlike heavier cream-based pastas, the use of ricotta brings a light yet rich texture, making it an appealing option for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

One of the main highlights of this recipe is its simplicity. With a few staple ingredients—pasta, mushrooms, ricotta cheese, garlic, and olive oil—this dish comes together in just 25 minutes. Despite its ease of preparation, the result is a restaurant-quality dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. It’s perfect for pasta lovers, vegetarians, or anyone looking for a satisfying yet wholesome meal.

Why This Recipe is a Standout

Rich and Creamy without the Heaviness: Unlike cream-based sauces, ricotta brings a fluffy, mild creaminess that doesn’t overwhelm the palate or weigh down the dish. This makes it an excellent option for those who crave creamy pasta but prefer a lighter alternative.
Earthy and Flavorful Mushrooms: The mushrooms in this recipe, ideally cremini or button mushrooms, lend a deep umami flavor that complements the subtle sweetness of ricotta. This pairing brings balance to the dish, as the mushrooms’ earthiness adds depth without overshadowing the other ingredients.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is a savior on busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. All it takes is a few quick steps—cooking the pasta, sautéing the mushrooms and garlic, and stirring in ricotta. It’s a simple process with a fantastic payoff.
Nutrient-Rich and Wholesome: This recipe is more than just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals like selenium and copper, which support immune health. Ricotta cheese, in turn, provides a source of high-quality protein, calcium, and vitamin D, making this a nutrient-dense meal.
Customizable for Different Diets: Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or looking to add more veggies, this recipe is highly adaptable. Use gluten-free pasta, add leafy greens like spinach or kale, or sprinkle in fresh herbs like basil or thyme to make it your own. For those who prefer a vegan version, cashew-based ricotta or a similar plant-based cheese can work as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mushroom Ricotta Pasta

Choosing the Pasta: The best types of pasta for this dish are those that can hold the creamy ricotta sauce well, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. These shapes provide a good balance with the small, tender slices of mushroom, ensuring each bite has a mix of creamy and earthy flavors.
Perfecting the Mushroom Sauté: When sautéing mushrooms, aim for a golden brown finish to bring out their full flavor. Adding a bit of garlic in the final minute of cooking infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the delicate ricotta.
Creamy Ricotta Sauce: Combining ricotta with Parmesan and a bit of reserved pasta water creates a smooth, creamy sauce that clings to each strand of pasta. Adjusting the pasta water lets you control the sauce’s thickness to your preference, making it as creamy or light as you like.
Finishing Touches: Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating the dish’s presentation. A dash of cracked black pepper adds subtle heat, balancing the creaminess with a touch of spice.

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

Mushrooms: Known for their high antioxidant content, mushrooms offer protective health benefits, supporting immunity and reducing inflammation. They are a natural source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism, and they contain minerals like selenium, which acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from damage.
Ricotta Cheese: Unlike heavier cheeses, ricotta is lower in fat but still provides ample protein and calcium, important for muscle health and bone strength. Its mild flavor makes it an excellent choice for creamy dishes that don’t require a sharp cheese taste.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and a variety of antioxidants. Olive oil’s richness enhances the mushrooms’ earthy flavor, lending a subtle depth to the dish.

Tips to Enhance the Recipe

Try a Flavor Boost with Herbs: While parsley is a classic garnish, adding fresh basil or thyme can add complexity to the flavor profile. Basil brings a sweet, aromatic note, while thyme adds a subtle earthy undertone that pairs well with mushrooms.
Add Vegetables for a Nutritious Twist: Spinach, kale, or zucchini can be folded into the dish for additional vitamins and minerals. Adding greens also gives a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing and more nutritionally balanced.
Make It Extra Cheesy: For cheese lovers, adding a touch of grated mozzarella or fontina can make this pasta extra indulgent. Just a small amount can elevate the creaminess, giving it a richer texture and taste.
Experiment with Mushroom Varieties: Using a mix of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, can add different textures and flavors. Shiitake mushrooms add a meatier bite, while oyster mushrooms have a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that complements the ricotta beautifully.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re serving this pasta for a weeknight dinner, a cozy date night, or a family gathering, it’s versatile enough to fit any occasion. The recipe is ideal for those who seek comfort food that feels both satisfying and gourmet without being too heavy. It’s a great option for busy individuals who want a nutritious meal, as it doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutritional value.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mushroom Ricotta Pasta

1. Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use mascarpone for a silkier texture or cottage cheese for a low-fat alternative. However, ricotta offers the best balance of creaminess and lightness for this recipe.

2. What type of mushrooms are best for this dish?
Cremini mushrooms are ideal due to their rich flavor, but white button mushrooms work as well. For more complex flavors, consider using a blend of shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

The Perfect Pairing

Pairing this Mushroom Ricotta Pasta with a light salad or garlic bread enhances the meal’s overall experience. A side of arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, while garlic bread adds a bit of crunch that complements the creamy pasta. To complete the meal, a glass of white wine, like a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, would complement the earthy and creamy flavors without overpowering the dish.

Conclusion

Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is a delightful, easy-to-make recipe that combines the warmth of comfort food with the sophistication of Italian cuisine. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s packed with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the lightness of ricotta. With its quick preparation time and adaptable nature, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.