Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle

Name: Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g tagliatelle pasta; 200g mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 200ml heavy cream; 50g parmesan cheese, grated; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore cooking this Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle for a cozy dinner date. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, it’s an exquisite dish that captivates the senses. The earthy mushrooms paired with fresh herbs and the delightful twist of parmesan make it hard to resist. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, allowing more time to enjoy candlelight and conversation. Trust me, this pasta dish will impress anyone and elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:52:11.587Z

When I first made this Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle, it was for a special night in with my partner. I remember the aroma of garlic and sautéed mushrooms filling the kitchen—it was simply enchanting. I used a mixture of fresh and dried mushrooms to amplify the depth of flavor, and it truly transformed the dish. Each bite was a delightful burst of creaminess paired with the perfect al dente pasta.

Making this dish taught me the importance of timing when cooking pasta. I always wait until the tagliatelle is almost ready before adding it to the sauce; this ensures that the pasta absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan right before serving gives it that extra touch of elegance.

        What You'll Love About This Dish
        Creamy sauce that envelops each strand of pasta
Earthy depth from mixed mushrooms, adding layers of flavor
Quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of mushrooms in this Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle is crucial for achieving that rich, earthy flavor profile. Mixed mushrooms such as cremini and shiitake not only enhance the taste but also add a delightful variety of textures. Cremini mushrooms offer a slightly nutty flavor, while the shiitake provides a meaty bite. If you're in a pinch, you could substitute with button mushrooms, but the depth of flavor may not be as pronounced.

The heavy cream is the star of the sauce, lending a luxurious creaminess that envelops each strand of pasta. It’s important to use a full-fat cream for the best texture; low-fat alternatives can result in a thin, less satisfying sauce. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can try using half-and-half, but keep in mind the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

Cooking Technique Tips

When cooking the tagliatelle, be sure to salt your water generously. This not only seasons the pasta but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Aim for the water to taste like the sea—this creates a more flavorful pasta. Always keep an eye on the cooking time, starting to check for al dente texture a minute before the package directions suggest. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly once mixed with the sauce.

For sautéing the mushrooms, make sure to give them enough space in the skillet. Crowding the pan can trap moisture and prevent them from browning properly. A good visual cue is to let them cook until they develop golden edges. If moisture builds up, you can raise the heat slightly to evaporate it and achieve that desirable caramelized flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle

200g tagliatelle pasta
200g mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
200ml heavy cream
50g parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat 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 an additional minute.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and add half of the grated parmesan. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked tagliatelle to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Serve

Plate the tagliatelle, sprinkling the remaining parmesan and chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately and enjoy your romantic dinner!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce when simmering. It adds a delightful depth of flavor that complements the mushrooms beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Romantic Mushroom Tagliatelle, consider serving it with a simple side salad. A fresh arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a lovely contrast to the creamy pasta. You might also pair this dish with a crusty baguette to soak up any remaining sauce, enhancing the meal experience. Don't shy away from garnishing your plate with additional fresh parsley or even a drizzle of truffle oil for an aromatic finish.

For an Italian twist, serve this dish alongside a glass of white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay, which complements the earthiness of the mushrooms beautifully. If you're having guests, a cheese platter with varied textures will create a lovely prelude to your dinner.

Make-Ahead Ideas

While this dish is best fresh, you can simplify your dinner preparations by prepping a few hours in advance. Slice the mushrooms and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also measure out the cream and parmesan ahead of time. However, I recommend cooking the pasta just before serving to retain its texture and avoid clumping.

If you end up with leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid using the microwave, as this can lead to overcooked pasta and a separated sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?

Yes, but you should rehydrate them in warm water before using them to ensure they are tender.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Ideally, it's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately. Just reheat and add fresh pasta when ready to serve.