Creamy Garlic Mushroom & Asparagus Penne Pasta

Preparation & Cooking Details

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta

• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced

• 1½ cups fresh asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ small onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1½ cups heavy cream

• ½ cup milk

• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup reserved pasta water

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra Parmesan cheese

• Freshly cracked black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.

2. Add 1 teaspoon salt.

3. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

4. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

5. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash the mushrooms and asparagus.

2. Slice mushrooms into medium-sized pieces.

3. Cut asparagus into approximately 2-inch pieces.

4. Finely chop the onion.

5. Mince the garlic.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add sliced mushrooms.

3. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.

4. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes.

5. Add minced garlic.

6. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Asparagus

1. Add asparagus pieces to the skillet.

2. Sprinkle with a little salt and black pepper.

3. Cook for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.

4. Stir occasionally to cook evenly.

Avoid overcooking so the asparagus stays bright green.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low.

2. Pour in heavy cream.

3. Add milk and stir gently.

4. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes.

5. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.

6. Add Parmesan cheese gradually.

7. Stir until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet.

2. Toss gently until every piece is coated.

3. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the sauce is too thick.

4. Stir in the mushrooms and asparagus.

5. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat.

2. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the pasta.

3. Add extra Parmesan cheese.

4. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper.

5. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

This recipe contains no intentionally added nuts.

Allergen information:

• Contains dairy (cream, milk, butter, and Parmesan).

• Contains wheat/gluten (regular penne pasta).

• Check packaged ingredients for possible nut cross-contamination.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Pasta

1. Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it becoming mushy.

2. Brown mushrooms properly for a deeper, richer flavor.

3. Use fresh asparagus for the best texture.

4. Add Parmesan gradually to prevent clumping.

5. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer rather than boiling.

6. Add pasta water slowly to achieve your preferred consistency.

7. For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of milk.

• Freezing: Not recommended because cream sauces can separate after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread

• Fresh Caesar salad

• Grilled chicken breast

• Roasted vegetables

• Crispy breadsticks

Final Result: Beautifully tender penne pasta covered in rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, with juicy golden mushrooms and fresh green asparagus in every bite. A delicious restaurant-style meal made right at home!