Name: Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pappardelle pasta; 8 oz portobello mushrooms, sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You'll Love This Recipe

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Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever savored a dish that transports you straight to a cozy Italian trattoria, where the aroma of rich sauces mingles with the scent of fresh herbs? Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce is just that dish. This delightful recipe blends thick, luscious pappardelle pasta with a robust portobello mushroom sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will linger on your palate long after the last bite.

Growing up, family dinners were always a cherished time, filled with laughter and shared stories over plates of comforting pasta. This Hearty Pappardelle takes me back to those moments, where every twirl of pasta was accompanied by the warmth of nostalgia. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish promises to impress both your family and guests alike. Get ready to experience an explosion of savory goodness that will make your taste buds dance!

Key Ingredients For Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pappardelle Pasta: Choose fresh or dried pappardelle for its wide, flat shape that holds sauce beautifully.
Portobello Mushrooms: Look for firm mushrooms that are dark brown and free from blemishes; they add depth and umami flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic qualities and enhance the overall flavor profile of the sauce.
Onion: A yellow onion works best as it becomes sweet when sautéed, balancing the savory elements of the dish.
Dried Thyme: This herb complements mushrooms perfectly, giving your sauce an earthy note.

For the Sauce:

Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control saltiness while adding richness to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient adds a luxurious creaminess that enhances the texture and flavor of the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty kick and depth; avoid pre-grated versions for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Prepare Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Clean and slice the portobello mushrooms and finely chop the onion and garlic. Set them aside for easy access during cooking.

Second Step : Cook Pappardelle

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Third Step : Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions and cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Then stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Fourth Step : Add Mushrooms

Add sliced portobello mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they become tender (approximately 5-7 minutes) while stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in dried thyme for added flavor.

Fifth Step : Create Sauce

Pour in vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly for about 5 minutes before adding heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Final Step : Combine Pasta

Add cooked pappardelle into the skillet along with reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency. Toss everything together gently until well coated in sauce.

Transfer to plates and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs will greatly enhance the flavors in your sauce.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Make sure your pappardelle is al dente for optimal texture when combined with sauce.
Adjust Consistency With Pasta Water: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired creaminess.

Presentation Ideas

This Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Fresh Herbs – Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to enhance the flavors and add a pop of color.
Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the taste profile, adding a nutty richness that complements the sauce.
Crusty Bread – Serve alongside a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce, making every bite satisfying.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce, consider these cooking tips:

Utilize fresh ingredients whenever possible to enhance flavor. Fresh portobello mushrooms offer deeper umami notes than canned varieties. Always cook the mushrooms until they are golden brown; this caramelization develops rich flavors.

Don’t rush the pasta cooking process. Al dente pappardelle has a firm texture that holds the sauce well. Taste the pasta a minute before it’s done to ensure perfect doneness.

Finally, take care when combining the pasta and sauce. Gently toss them together to avoid breaking the delicate strands of pappardelle, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.

Nutritional Information

This Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce not only delights your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients.

A typical serving offers a balance of carbohydrates from pappardelle and protein from mushrooms, making it a hearty meal. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and vitamins D and B, promoting overall health. You can easily adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs while enjoying this comforting dish.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of your Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce, store them properly to maintain freshness.

Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, while pappardelle is ideal due to its wide shape that holds sauces well, you can substitute it with other pasta types like fettuccine or tagliatelle. Just ensure that you cook them according to package instructions for optimal texture. Keep in mind that different pasta shapes may slightly alter the eating experience but will still pair beautifully with savory portobello mushroom sauce.

How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

To make your Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce vegan-friendly, simply replace any dairy products used in garnishing, such as cheese or butter, with plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without animal products. Additionally, choose a vegan pasta variety that doesn’t contain eggs for an entirely plant-based meal.

What side dishes pair well with this hearty meal?

Consider serving a light salad or steamed vegetables as side dishes alongside your Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides freshness and balances the richness of the sauce. Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach also complement this dish without overpowering its flavors.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Hearty Pappardelle with Savory Portobello Mushroom Sauce ahead of time for convenience. Cook the pasta and sauce separately and combine them just before serving to prevent sogginess. Store each component in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to three days; then reheat gently on low heat when ready to enjoy your delicious meal.