A Creamy Mushroom Pasta Sauce Without Heavy Cream

Looking for a creamy and flavorful mushroom pasta sauce that doesn't rely on heavy cream? This recipe offers a delicious and easy solution. By using the pasta cooking water and some ricotta cheese, you can achieve a rich and velvety texture that mimics the taste of a classic cream sauce.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

1 pound fresh mushrooms 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup of milk (or buttermilk) 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 pound fresh pasta of your choice Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation Steps

Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in a large pot with olive oil over medium heat. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Add the mushrooms to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they release their moisture and become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Add the milk or buttermilk to the mushroom mixture. Stir in gently and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thin, you can gradually add more pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

If you are using ricotta, mix it into the sauce and stir until it is fully incorporated. Add salt and pepper to taste.

While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the mushroom sauce. Stir in the reserved pasta water to create a creamy texture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan if desired.

Alternative Thickening Methods

While the pasta cooking water and ricotta can offer a smooth and creamy texture, sometimes you may need an extra thickening option. Here are a couple of ways to achieve a thicker sauce without relying on heavy cream:

Step-by-Step Bechamel Sauce

Blend 1/3 cup of milk with 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a smooth paste.

Heat 1/4 cup of milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it comes to a simmer, gradually whisk in the flour and milk mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Once the mixture thickens, remove it from heat and cools slightly. Add the bechamel to the mushroom sauce and stir until well combined. Be sure to use the mixture judiciously to avoid making the sauce too thick.

Using Corn Starch for Extra Thickness

If you need a quick fix and don't have time for a bechamel, corn starch can be used as a thickener. Mix 1 tablespoon of corn starch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the hot mushroom sauce, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Tips and Variations

To make your mushroom pasta sauce even more delicious, consider the following tips and variations:

For a richer flavor, add a splash of cognac or white wine to the sautéed mushrooms before adding the milk or buttermilk.

To make the sauce even creamier, you can blend a small amount of the pasta cooking water with ricotta or use a food processor to puree the sauce.

Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as porcini, button, or shiitake, for a unique taste.

Add some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Creating a creamy mushroom pasta sauce without heavy cream is not only possible but can also be a healthier and more flavorful option. By using creative alternatives like milk, bechamel, and the pasta cooking water, you can achieve a delicious and smooth sauce that will enhance any pasta meal. Give this recipe a try and let the rich, savory flavors delight your taste buds without heavy guilt!