Mushroom cream sauce is one of those magical dishes that feels fancy but is actually super simple to make! It’s creamy, savory, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta or drizzling it over chicken, this sauce is always a hit with my family. Plus, it comes together in a flash, making it a reliable favorite in my kitchen!
Method
Preparing the Skillet
To begin, place a skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, swirling the pan slightly to ensure it evenly coats the bottom. This step sets the stage for perfectly sautéed mushrooms that are rich and buttery.
Cooking the Mushrooms and Garlic
Once the butter has melted, add the sliced mushrooms and the crushed garlic to the skillet. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and the thyme. Let the mushrooms cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms should release their moisture, then gradually become golden and tender. This sautéing process deepens the flavor, giving the sauce its signature savory base.
Incorporating the Cream Cheese
After the mushrooms have softened and taken on a golden hue, it’s time to add the cream cheese. Reduce the heat slightly to prevent scorching. Stir continuously as the cream cheese melts, creating a smooth, velvety texture. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy consistency without lumps.
Adding the Cream and Parmesan
Next, pour in the cream, followed by the parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of pepper to balance the richness. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 2 minutes, which helps meld the flavors. You’ll notice the sauce beginning to thicken slightly, coating the back of your spoon.
Combining with Pasta
At this point, your cooked pasta should be ready. Add the pasta directly into the skillet, gently tossing it to ensure every piece is coated with the luscious mushroom cream sauce. The sauce should cling to the pasta without being overly thick or runny.
Serving
Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot and creamy. A sprinkle of extra parmesan on top never hurts!
Necessary Tools
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic press (optional)
Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe
Difficulty: Easy4
servings5
minutes15
minutes20
minutesIngredients
2 cups sliced mushrooms
2 cups cream
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp cream cheese
1 crushed garlic clove
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and crushed garlic, then season with salt and thyme. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are golden and fragrant.
- Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Pour in the cream, followed by the parmesan cheese and a pinch of pepper. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and gently stir to coat in the creamy, delicious sauce.
- Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy.
Notes
- Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
- Don’t let the sauce simmer too long after adding the cream and cheese, or it may become too thick.
- Stir continuously when adding the cream cheese to prevent it from clumping.
Serving Suggestions
This mushroom cream sauce pairs beautifully with bow tie pasta, but you can also try it with fettuccine or pappardelle. For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. It also works as a sauce over baked potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Fun Fact
Did you know mushrooms are a natural umami powerhouse? That’s why they add such a savory depth to creamy sauces!
Conclusion
This mushroom cream sauce is a winner every time! It’s creamy, flavorful, and versatile enough to dress up any meal. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this sauce has you covered. Try it tonight and let me know how your family enjoys it!
