This elegant yet rustic pasta dish combines al dente spaghetti with sautéed mushrooms, crispy pancetta, fresh basil, and a touch of cream—perfectly balanced with black pepper and Parmesan for a savory Italian-inspired meal. It’s rich and satisfying, yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner and refined enough for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This spaghetti dish captures the perfect harmony of creamy, salty, and umami-rich flavors. The pancetta offers a crisp, savory contrast to the tender mushrooms, while the light cream sauce adds a luxurious touch without being too heavy. Parmesan enhances the depth of flavor, and fresh basil brings a welcome brightness. It’s quick to prepare and delivers classic Italian comfort with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz (225g) spaghetti
4 oz (115g) pancetta or thick-cut bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cremini or shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5–6 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 2–3 minutes.
Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and tender.
Return the pancetta to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and additional Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2–3
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit pancetta and add extra mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
Add Greens: Stir in spinach or arugula just before serving for added color and nutrients.
Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the garlic and mushrooms.
Use a Different Pasta: Fettuccine, linguine, or tagliatelle work well with this sauce.
Try Different Mushrooms: A blend of wild mushrooms adds deeper flavor and complexity.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or pasta water. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent drying out.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?

Yes, thick-cut bacon is a great substitute for pancetta. It provides a similar crispy texture and smoky flavor.

What kind of cream should I use?

Heavy cream is ideal for richness and stability. Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option, though the sauce will be thinner.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is best for both flavor and texture. Pre-grated versions may not melt as smoothly.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Toss cooked pasta with a little oil if you’re not using it immediately, and reserve some pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

You can substitute with chopped parsley or omit it. Fresh herbs brighten the dish but are not essential.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the pancetta and mushroom mixture in advance and reheat it just before tossing with the pasta.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add chili flakes if desired for a bit of heat.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A light to medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs nicely. For reds, try a light Sangiovese.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free spaghetti or pasta shapes work well. Be sure to follow the package instructions carefully to avoid overcooking.

What can I add to make it more filling?

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans for extra protein.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom and Crispy Pancetta Spaghetti is a quick and comforting pasta recipe that doesn’t sacrifice elegance. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it transforms simple pantry staples into a dish full of warmth and flavor. Whether for a cozy night in or a casual dinner for guests, this meal is sure to satisfy with its balanced richness and refined taste.