Print

Mushroom Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Mushroom Ricotta Pasta Recipe

5.1 from 13 reviews

This creamy Mushroom Ricotta Pasta combines tender cremini mushrooms sautéed to golden perfection with a luscious ricotta and Parmesan cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick and comforting vegetarian meal, this dish balances savory flavors and a smooth, rich texture that coats your favorite pasta beautifully. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet simple.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)

Mushroom Mixture

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb (450g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup pasta water, reserved
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta; this starchy water will help in creating a smooth sauce.
  2. Sauté Mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become golden brown and softened, releasing their earthy flavor.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to maintain its delicate aroma.
  4. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sautéed mushrooms. Fold in the ricotta cheese mixture evenly to coat the pasta.
  6. Adjust Sauce Consistency: Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, stirring gently until the sauce reaches your desired consistency, ensuring it is creamy and coats the pasta nicely.
  7. Season and Garnish: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if necessary with more salt or pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a fresh, vibrant touch before serving.

Notes

  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is achieved.
  • Cremini mushrooms can be substituted with button or shiitake mushrooms for different flavor profiles.
  • For a nuttier taste, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts as a topping.
  • If ricotta is not available, a blend of cream cheese and sour cream can be used as an alternative.
  • To make this dish vegan, substitute ricotta and Parmesan with plant-based cheese options and use nutritional yeast for extra umami flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mushroom pasta, ricotta pasta, creamy mushroom pasta, vegetarian pasta recipe, quick pasta dinner