This delicious mushroom pasta dish is great for a quick weeknight meal! Whole wheat pasta and baby bella mushrooms are perfect for a hearty, vegetarian main dish!

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I have to admit, I’m not someone who loves mushrooms. This may come as a surprise, since it seems that most vegetarians do enjoy mushrooms, but they’ve never been my favorite. That said, I’ve come to appreciate the umami flavor they can add to a dish and I’ve found ways to enjoy them in dishes like my penne rosa or farro risotto.

Ingredients & Substitutions

  • Pasta– I prefer using a small shape like rotini or bow tie pasta. I used whole wheat pasta to give this dish a boost of protein and make it extra filling.
  • Butter– This adds richness and flavor to the dish, contributing to the overall taste and texture of the sauce.
  • Shallots– Shallots bring a mild, sweet onion flavor to the recipe, enhancing the savory profile of the dish. You could substitute it with a small yellow onion if you prefer.
  • Garlic– This helps add flavor to the sauce. I used fresh garlic, but you can substitute with one teaspoon of garlic powder, if necessary.
  • Mushrooms– I prefer the flavor and texture of baby bella mushrooms, which are young portobello mushrooms.
  • Thyme– I’ve tested this recipe with, fresh and dried thyme and both work well.
  • Broth– This helps build the sauce and add flavor.
  • Cream– You can use heavy cream or cashew cream if you want a vegan option. You could substitute with whole milk, but it won’t be quite as creamy.
  • Lemon juice– Lemon juice brightens the dish, providing acidity that balances the richness of the cream and enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Parmesan cheese– Parmesan cheese adds a salty and umami flavor. I recommend using real Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

What are Baby Bella Mushrooms

Baby bella mushrooms are also known as cremini mushrooms. The are harvested after white button mushrooms, but before reaching the full maturity of portobello mushrooms. They have a light to dark brown cap, a firm texture, and a robust, earthy flavor. I think they have the best flavor and texture for this pasta recipe.

How to Clean Baby Bella Mushrooms

To clean the mushrooms, gently wipe them with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove dirt and debris. Use a soft brush or knife to address any stubborn spots, and trim the stems if necessary. Avoid soaking the mushrooms in water to prevent them from absorbing excess moisture. Once cleaned, use the mushrooms immediately or store them in a breathable container such as a basket, in the refrigerator.

How to Make Mushroom Pasta