Creamy Tomato and Mushroom Pasta Recipe | How to Cook It Right?

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Tomato and Mushroom Pasta, a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen table. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution when you’re craving something satisfying yet quick to prepare.

This vegetarian recipe features a rich, savory tomato cream sauce, earthy mushrooms, and tender pasta, all coming together in a beautifully balanced meal. It’s a simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious dish that the whole family will love, requiring minimal effort for a truly rewarding culinary experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the simple, fresh ingredients required to create this delightful pasta dish.

• 12 oz (340g) of your favorite pasta (like Penne, Fusilli, or Fettuccine)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz (225g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved OR 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

How to Cook Creamy Tomato Mushroom Pasta?

Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly creamy and flavorful pasta dish every time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Just before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and started to brown.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Add the cherry tomatoes (or tomato puree) and dried oregano to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. If using whole tomatoes, gently press on them with a spoon to release their juices.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the sauce and stir until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. If using spinach, add it now and stir until it wilts.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy tomato sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Your Questions, Answered!

Here are answers to some common questions about making this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based cream alternative like full-fat coconut cream or a cashew cream. Also, be sure to use a vegan-friendly pasta and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free substitute.

What are the best mushrooms for this pasta?

Cremini mushrooms (baby bellas) are a great choice because of their firm texture and deep, earthy flavor. However, you could also use white button mushrooms, shiitake, or a wild mushroom mix for a different flavor profile.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can. A 15-ounce can of diced or crushed tomatoes would work well as a substitute for the fresh cherry tomatoes. Simply drain them before adding to the skillet.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Pro-Tips for the Perfect Pasta

• Don’t forget the pasta water! The starchy water is a key ingredient that helps the sauce cling to the pasta and gives it a silky, luxurious texture.
• Add a little heat. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and mushrooms.
• Use fresh herbs. While dried oregano works well, finishing the dish with fresh basil or parsley adds a vibrant burst of flavor that elevates the entire meal.