Bow Tie Pasta With Mushroom Cream Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Mushroom Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 3 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini and button); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Mushroom Cream Sauce whenever I'm looking for a comforting, satisfying meal. The combination of tender pasta and creamy mushroom sauce creates a rich flavor that leaves everyone asking for seconds. It’s a fantastic dish that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions. Trust me, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:41:35.365Z

When I first tried making Bow Tie Pasta with Mushroom Cream Sauce, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily everything came together. The secret? Using a mix of fresh mushrooms and cream creates a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. I love exploring different types of mushrooms, as they each add unique flavors, and this dish is a fantastic canvas for experimenting!

One key tip I’ve learned is to sauté the mushrooms until they develop a golden-brown color, which enhances their natural sweetness. This not only adds depth to the sauce but also turns it into a visually stunning dish. Serve it with a sprinkle of parsley, and you've got yourself a dinner that rivals restaurant-quality meals!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy mushroom sauce that envelops every bow tie pasta piece
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
Rich and savory flavors that delight every palate

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

The choice of mushrooms significantly impacts the flavor of your mushroom cream sauce. I recommend using a mix of cremini and button mushrooms for a balanced taste; cremini adds depth with its earthy notes, while button mushrooms provide a more delicate flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a robust twist. These mushrooms not only enhance the sauce's complexity but also add visual interest with their varied colors and textures.

When slicing your mushrooms, aim for uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and achieve that desirable golden-brown color. If you notice your mushrooms releasing too much moisture, it could be due to overcrowding in the skillet. You can avoid this by sautéing them in batches, if necessary, which allows for proper browning and prevents the sauce from becoming watery.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

Creating a creamy, luscious sauce requires attention to temperature and timing. As you bring the cream to a simmer, keep stirring gently to prevent it from scorching on the bottom. You'll know it's ready when it begins to bubble around the edges and thickens slightly; keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. The addition of Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes to the sauce’s creaminess, so make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

If you want to customize your sauce, consider adding some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, which complement the mushrooms beautifully. These can be stirred in just before serving. Additionally, if you're looking for a lighter version, try substituting half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth. This still maintains a creamy texture while reducing the richness.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

8 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini and button)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Combine all ingredients for an easy, delicious meal.

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy mushroom sauce.

Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnish with chopped parsley, and enjoy your delicious meal!

Enjoy your Bow Tie Pasta with Mushroom Cream Sauce!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of mushrooms for varied flavor profiles, and don't hesitate to add a splash of white wine before adding the cream for extra depth!

Making Ahead and Storage

This dish can be a weeknight lifesaver! If you're looking to meal prep, you can cook the pasta and mushroom cream sauce separately a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat the sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore its silky texture before mixing in the pasta.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cream sauce but avoid freezing the pasta, as it tends to become mushy when reheated. To freeze, let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

Besides parsley, consider garnishing with additional toppings to enhance the dish's flavor and texture. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add a delightful crunch while grated lemon zest offers a refreshing brightness that cuts through the creaminess. Pairing your Bow Tie Pasta with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables not only elevates the presentation but also balances the meal nutritionally.

For an added touch of elegance, serve your dish with a glass of white wine that complements the creamy mushrooms, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. This pairing enhances the overall dining experience and makes this dish suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! This sauce pairs well with any pasta shape you enjoy.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! The recipe is already vegetarian-friendly but feel free to omit the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I add protein to the dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp would be amazing additions.