Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle

Name: Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g tagliatelle; 150g mixed mushrooms (cremini and shiitake), sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 100ml heavy cream; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle for a cozy evening at home. The earthy notes of the mushrooms combined with the delicate texture of the tagliatelle create a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. Whether it's a date night or simply a treat for myself, I find that this recipe always impresses. The addition of garlic and cream elevates the flavors, making it an indulgent choice. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:55:49.467Z

When I first tried creating this Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle, I experimented with various types of mushrooms to find the perfect combination. I settled on a mix of cremini and shiitake for their deep flavors, and it made all the difference. I sautéed them with garlic, carefully adding cream to create a rich sauce that clung beautifully to the pasta.

This dish became a staple in my home, especially on special occasions. The key is not to rush the sautéing process; letting the mushrooms caramelize really enhances their flavor. I like to finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lovely color contrast.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Earthy mushroom flavor paired with creamy sauce
Elegant dish perfect for date nights or special occasions
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for a weeknight dinner

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of mushrooms is crucial in this Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle, as each variety brings its unique flavor profile. Cremini mushrooms add a robust, earthy base, while shiitake contributes a slightly smoky, umami richness. For a slightly different flavor, you can substitute with other mushrooms like portobello or oyster. Just ensure they are fresh, as this dish greatly benefits from the full-bodied taste of high-quality mushrooms.

The heavy cream is what transforms this dish from simple pasta to a luxurious meal. Using a cream with a higher fat content (around 36%) is preferred because it creates a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the pasta and mushrooms. If you need a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative, though the sauce will not be as rich.

Technique Tips for Perfect Tagliatelle

When cooking the tagliatelle, don't forget to add salt to the boiling water. This is crucial as it enhances the pasta's flavor. Aim for a salt level akin to sea water, which helps season the pasta as it cooks. Cook the pasta until just al dente; you want it to retain a slight bite, which will balance nicely against the creaminess of the sauce.

After draining the pasta, reserve some pasta water. If you find the sauce too thick when combining it with the tagliatelle, adding a tablespoon or two of this starchy water can help loosen it up and provide a silky finish. This technique not only ensures the sauce adheres better but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

200g tagliatelle
150g mixed mushrooms (cremini and shiitake), sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
100ml heavy cream
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful cooking experience:

Cook the Tagliatelle

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the tagliatelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained tagliatelle to the mushroom sauce, tossing to coat well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Plate the tagliatelle and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle!

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms after sautéing, allowing it to reduce before adding the cream.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the romantic ambiance of your meal, consider pairing the Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. This will provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Additionally, serving it with a side of warm, crusty bread will allow you to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Wine pairing can elevate your dining experience as well. A light-bodied white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or a dry Riesling, complements the earthiness of the mushrooms and the creaminess of the sauce beautifully. If you prefer red, opt for a light choice like a Pinot Noir.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some sauce while sitting, so if you're preparing it for leftovers, consider saving a bit of extra cream to freshen up the dish upon reheating.

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat to warm the pasta gently, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to maintain the desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating, aiming for a creamy texture without overheating the sauce, which can cause it to separate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute tagliatelle with fettuccine or even penne if you prefer.

→ What if I can't find shiitake mushrooms?

You can use any variety of mushrooms you like, such as button or oyster mushrooms.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian, making it perfect for meat-free meals.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.