Silky tagliatelle tossed in a luscious mushroom cream sauce, layered with the deep umami of sautéed mushrooms and the nutty crunch of golden pine nuts. This cozy pasta dish is rustic, rich, and perfect for cooler evenings or an elegant dinner. Earthy, aromatic, and satisfying, it’s a gourmet meal made easily at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the tagliatelle, while the toasted pine nuts add texture and depth. It’s vegetarian yet hearty, making it a perfect main course for weeknights or entertaining. It’s also highly customizable with seasonal mushrooms or herbs, and it comes together quickly without compromising taste.

ingredients

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

tagliatelle or fettuccine
olive oil
unsalted butter
garlic, minced
shallot, finely chopped
mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or porcini), sliced
dry white wine (or vegetable broth)
heavy cream
grated Parmesan cheese
pine nuts, toasted
salt and freshly ground black pepper
fresh sage or parsley, for garnish (optional)

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tagliatelle until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Add the shallots and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add the mushrooms and sauté for 6–8 minutes, until golden and tender. Season with salt and pepper.
Deglaze the pan with white wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer until reduced by half.
Stir in the cream and cook for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the Parmesan and stir until melted and incorporated.
Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a creamy consistency.
Fold in the toasted pine nuts and adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

Yield: Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Truffle Upgrade: Add a drizzle of truffle oil or truffle salt for a luxurious twist.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan. Swap butter with more olive oil.
Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu for a heartier dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Herbed Version: Mix in chopped thyme or rosemary for extra aromatic depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or water to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is also possible in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, fettuccine, pappardelle, or even spaghetti work well. Just ensure it’s a type that holds sauce effectively.

What mushrooms work best?

Cremini, shiitake, and porcini provide excellent flavor and texture. You can also use white button mushrooms or a pre-mixed variety pack.

Is the wine necessary?

No, vegetable broth can be substituted. However, wine adds a deeper flavor and acidity that balances the cream.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce a few hours ahead and reheat it gently when ready to serve.

Can I omit the pine nuts?

Yes, but they add a delightful crunch. Walnuts or slivered almonds can be used as substitutes.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Use heavy cream and avoid high heat once it’s added. Stir continuously and gently simmer.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. A mix of milk and a bit of butter can help thicken it.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad, crusty bread, or a glass of white wine pairs wonderfully with this pasta.

How do I toast pine nuts?

Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until golden and fragrant—about 3 minutes.

Can I freeze this dish?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well due to texture changes upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored short-term in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Tagliatelle with Toasted Pine Nuts is a rich, comforting pasta dish that brings together savory mushrooms, silky sauce, and nutty crunch in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this elegant yet simple recipe is sure to satisfy and impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.