Linguine with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

(19)

The creamy mushroom linguine is ready in 40 minutes, so it's quick enough for an easy weeknight recipe but it feels fancy enough for entertaining.

Active Time:
40 mins
Total Time:
40 mins
Servings:
4
Yield:
6 cups
Overhead view of various ingredients on a cutting board for the Linguine with Creamy Mushroom Sauce recipe

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster

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Ingredients

  • 8 ounces whole-wheat linguine pasta

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 6 cloves garlic, sliced

  • 1 ½ pounds mixed mushrooms, sliced

  • 1 cup diced shallots

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

  • 1 cup dry white wine

  • ½ cup sour cream or crème fraîche

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

  • Finely chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

  2. Meanwhile, heat oil and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add mushrooms, shallots and thyme and increase heat to high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid the mushrooms release has evaporated and the mushrooms are starting to brown, 11 to 13 minutes.

  3. Add wine to the pan and cook until it is reduced by about half, about 3 minutes. Stir in the reserved pasta water, sour cream (or crème fraîche), Parmesan, butter, salt and pepper. Add the pasta and toss to coat. Serve topped with more Parmesan and parsley, if desired.

    Linguine with Creamy Mushroom Sauce on a plate with a fork

    Brie Passano

Equipment

Large pot, large skillet

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are there health benefits to using whole wheat pasta?

    Whole wheat pasta is a whole grain, and like all whole grains, it contains a wealth of nutrients, especially compared to refined grains. For starters, whole grains contain fiber, which has been linked to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It also helps control appetite by keeping you full longer. Whole grains have also been linked to reducing inflammation and heart disease risk.

  • Are mushrooms good for you?

    While they might not fit the "Eat the Rainbow" campaign, mushrooms' earthy umami-ness adds more than just flavor to your favorite dishes. These fungi are loaded with B vitamins, potassium, vitamin D and antioxidants. Research suggests that mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties and can boost gut health.

  • Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

    Yes, as long as you eat dairy, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly.

  • Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

    Yes, if you don't have fresh thyme on hand, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead.

  • Is there a substitute for the white wine?

    You can replace the white wine with an equal amount of low-sodium vegetable broth plus 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a touch of brightness and acidity to balance out the dish.

  • Why do I need to reserve pasta water?

    When boiling pasta, starch is released into the water. We reserve some of that starchy pasta water and add it to the cooked mushrooms, along with sour cream (or crème fraîche), Parmesan, butter, salt, and pepper until the sauce has a creamy consistency. The starch from the pasta water acts as a thickener, which helps the sauce cling to the pasta. If you find that the sauce is watery, simmer it for 1 minute until it reduces down before adding the linguine.

  • What mushrooms are best for pasta?

    This easy pasta recipe is a great way to use wild mushrooms, available at many grocery stores and farmer's markets. Use an assortment of mixed mushrooms for the pasta, such as cremini, portobello, chanterelle, shiitake, porcini, button and oyster mushrooms. When shopping for mushrooms, they should feel dry and firm to the touch, have a smooth outer appearance and are free from any dark spots. Be sure to clean the mushrooms well before using.

  • What can I serve with Linguine with Creamy Mushroom Sauce?

    Serve this easy mushroom linguine with a simple side salad for a quick dinner. It's also delicious paired with an Herb & Arugula Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette or a hearty Warm Butternut Squash & Kale Salad with Goat Cheese & Pepitas.

Additional reporting by Jan Valdez and Carrie Myers

Originally appeared: EatingWell Magazine, October 2019

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

479 Calories
18g Fat
59g Carbs
17g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 4
Serving Size 1 1/2 cups
Calories 479
% Daily Value *
Total Carbohydrate 59g 21%
Dietary Fiber 7g 26%
Total Sugars 8g
Protein 17g 33%
Total Fat 18g 23%
Saturated Fat 6g 32%
Cholesterol 26mg 9%
Vitamin A 750IU 15%
Vitamin C 9mg 10%
Folate 85mcg 21%
Sodium 409mg 18%
Calcium 121mg 9%
Iron 4mg 21%
Magnesium 109mg 26%
Potassium 1026mg 22%

Nutrition information is calculated by a registered dietitian using an ingredient database but should be considered an estimate.

* Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day. Percent Daily Value (%DV) found on nutrition labels tells you how much a serving of a particular food or recipe contributes to each of those total recommended amounts. Per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the daily value is based on a standard 2,000 calorie diet. Depending on your calorie needs or if you have a health condition, you may need more or less of particular nutrients. (For example, it’s recommended that people following a heart-healthy diet eat less sodium on a daily basis compared to those following a standard diet.)

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a special diet for medical reasons, be sure to consult with your primary care provider or a registered dietitian to better understand your personal nutrition needs.

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