Creamy Mushroom Farfalle Pasta is a comforting and elegant dish that brings together tender bow-tie pasta and a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, all enhanced by the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a romantic date night, this dish is a delicious balance of simplicity and indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy sauce made with real cream and Parmesan
• Earthy, savory mushrooms add depth and texture
• Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
• Pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, or a glass of wine
• Ideal as a vegetarian main course or hearty side

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
12 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the farfalle pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and tender.
5. Pour in the white wine, if using, and allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
7. Add the Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
8. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce and stir until evenly coated.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for a heartier version.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil, rosemary, or sage for aromatic variation.
• Truffle Flavor: Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for an elevated, restaurant-style experience.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency. Stir frequently. You may also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni are great substitutes if farfalle is unavailable.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini and button mushrooms are commonly used, but shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms also add great flavor.

Is white wine necessary?

No, it’s optional. You can substitute with extra broth or water, or omit it entirely.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Whole milk can be used, though the sauce will be lighter and less rich. You may need to cook it longer to achieve thickness.

What can I serve with this pasta?

It pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or grilled proteins.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Keep the heat at medium to low when adding the cream and avoid boiling the sauce vigorously.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the components ahead of time and reheat gently before serving, but it’s best enjoyed freshly made.

How do I make it more cheesy?

Increase the Parmesan to 3/4 cup or stir in some Fontina or mozzarella for extra richness.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley, thyme, chives, or sage are excellent choices. Add fresh herbs at the end for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Farfalle Pasta is a satisfying, versatile dish that’s both simple to make and full of gourmet appeal. The combination of tender pasta, velvety garlic cream sauce, and savory mushrooms creates a comforting meal that fits effortlessly into any dinner plan. Whether you’re cooking for a casual evening or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please every palate.

Print