Mushroom Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender fettuccine noodles coated in a velvety Alfredo sauce with sautéed mushrooms. This comforting and flavorful meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you crave a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A creamy, indulgent sauce with deep, savory mushroom flavor.
- Simple ingredients and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
- Pairs well with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for variety.
- Perfect for a comforting dinner or an elegant meal.
- Can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pasta:
- Fettuccine noodles
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or shiitake), sliced
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper
- Nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Cook the Fettuccine
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.
- Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
5. Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chicken Mushroom Alfredo – Add grilled or pan-seared chicken slices.
- Shrimp Alfredo – Toss in cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Spinach Alfredo – Stir in fresh spinach for extra greens.
- Spicy Alfredo – Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Alfredo sauce does not freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, linguine, tagliatelle, or spaghetti work well.
What mushrooms are best for Alfredo?
Cremini, button, shiitake, or a mix of wild mushrooms add great flavor.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can thicken it with a bit of flour or cornstarch.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency as needed.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make Alfredo sauce smoother?
Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded, as it melts better.
Can I add white wine to the sauce?
Yes, deglaze the mushrooms with a splash of white wine before adding the cream.
What side dishes go well with this pasta?
Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables are great options.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead and quickly reheat.
How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from separating?
Cook on low heat and avoid overheating the cream to prevent curdling.
Conclusion
Mushroom Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether served as a comforting weeknight meal or an elegant dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Try this recipe today for a homemade classic that rivals any restaurant versio