Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pappardelle Pasta

Introduction

Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pappardelle Pasta is a delightful, rich, and earthy dish that showcases the deep flavors of wild mushrooms paired with the luxurious texture of pappardelle pasta. The combination of caramelized mushrooms, garlic, white wine, and cream creates a sauce that clings perfectly to the broad pappardelle noodles, making every bite satisfying. Fresh thyme and Parmesan cheese enhance the dish with their herbal and savory notes, while parsley adds a fresh finishing touch.

This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, whether you’re serving it as a special meal for guests or enjoying a weeknight indulgence. The caramelization process of the mushrooms brings out their natural sweetness and umami, elevating the flavor profile to new heights. Let’s get started with how to prepare this incredible pasta dish.

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) pappardelle pasta
1 lb (450g) mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wine
1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of pappardelle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Mushrooms

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the 1 lb of sliced wild mushrooms to the skillet in a single layer, allowing them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden, caramelized exterior. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 8-10 minutes, until the mushrooms are golden brown and caramelized.
Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper to taste. Caramelizing the mushrooms enhances their natural umami flavor and adds richness to the dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once the butter melts, add the 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it should infuse the mushrooms with a wonderful depth of flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour 1/4 cup of dry white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This process, called deglazing, incorporates all the rich, caramelized flavors from the mushrooms into the sauce.
Let the wine cook down for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate its flavors.

Step 5: Add Cream and Thyme

Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves. The cream adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce, while the thyme gives the dish a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness.
Simmer the sauce for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a luscious coating for the pasta.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pappardelle pasta to the skillet with the mushroom sauce. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce until it is evenly coated.
If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water (a few tablespoons at a time) to achieve your desired consistency. The starch from the pasta water helps the sauce cling to the noodles, making the dish smooth and silky.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pappardelle Pasta hot. Garnish with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a burst of fresh flavor.
The Parmesan adds a savory, umami-rich finish, while the parsley provides a vibrant, herby contrast to the creamy sauce.

Cooking Note:

Mushroom Selection: Feel free to use any variety of wild mushrooms you like or can find, such as cremini, shiitake, oyster, or even porcini. Each type of mushroom adds its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Wine Substitution: If you don’t want to use white wine, you can substitute it with vegetable or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version, though the wine adds a nice depth of flavor.
Consistency: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sauce with pasta water. It helps emulsify the sauce and gives the pasta a beautiful, glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions:

With a Side Salad: Serve this pasta with a light, fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce.
Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread or a toasted baguette will pair perfectly with this creamy pasta, allowing you to soak up any extra sauce.
Wine Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Tips:

Make It Vegetarian: This dish is naturally vegetarian if you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for deglazing. You can also omit the Parmesan for a vegan option and substitute with a plant-based cheese.
Extra Flavor: For added depth, try sprinkling some crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish for a touch of heat.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creaminess.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 600mg

Conclusion

Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pappardelle Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that brings together the deep, earthy flavors of wild mushrooms with the creaminess of a white wine and cream sauce. The fresh thyme and caramelized mushrooms add complexity, while the wide pappardelle noodles soak up the sauce, making every bite decadent and satisfying. This dish is perfect for special occasions, date nights, or simply when you want to indulge in something deliciously comforting. Pair it with a crisp white wine and enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your own home