Description
If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that’s full of rich flavor and a touch of elegance, this Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pappardelle Pasta is exactly what you need. With golden, tender mushrooms, fragrant herbs, and wide, velvety pappardelle noodles tossed in a light, creamy sauce—this recipe delivers bold taste and satisfying texture in every bite.
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Ingredients
For the Mushrooms:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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1 lb wild mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, oyster, chanterelle), cleaned and sliced
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1 small shallot, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
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8 oz pappardelle pasta (fresh or dried)
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Salt for boiling water
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⅓ cup heavy cream
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¼ cup reserved pasta water
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp lemon juice
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2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
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Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pappardelle
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add pappardelle and cook according to package directions until al dente.
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Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
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Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Caramelize the Mushrooms
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add sliced mushrooms in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes.
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Stir and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are deeply browned and caramelized.
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Reduce heat to medium. Add shallots and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
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Add garlic, thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
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Lower heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
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Add the reserved pasta water and Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
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Add lemon juice to balance the richness and enhance flavor.
Step 4: Toss Pasta with the Sauce
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Add cooked pappardelle to the skillet with the sauce.
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Toss gently using tongs to coat the pasta evenly with the mushrooms and sauce.
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Simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring gently.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Divide pasta into bowls and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
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Top with more Parmesan cheese and a pinch of black pepper.
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Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Give mushrooms room to brown. Cook in batches if needed.
Use a Mix of Mushrooms – Combining different varieties adds layers of flavor and texture.
Fresh Pasta Works Best – But dried pappardelle is a great alternative and easier to store.
Add a Splash of Broth or Juice – A little vegetable broth or white grape juice can deepen the sauce.
For Extra Creaminess – Stir in a spoonful of mascarpone or ricotta before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian