Creamy Mushroom and Leek Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a rich and satisfying pasta dish, this Creamy Mushroom and Leek Pasta is the perfect choice. With a luscious cream sauce, savory mushrooms, and tender leeks, this dish is full of flavor and texture. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s quick and easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

Made with fresh leeks, mushrooms, and a creamy base of heavy whipping cream and chicken broth, this recipe delivers a comforting, velvety sauce that perfectly coats your favorite pasta. With the addition of dill and garlic, it brings an herbaceous kick that elevates the dish. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to add a rich finish.

This pasta with leeks and mushrooms is not only delicious but also customizable. You can swap out the pasta type or make it vegan-friendly with dairy-free ingredients. It’s a versatile and easy-to-follow recipe that guarantees a flavorful, satisfying meal every time. Perfect for anyone who loves hearty vegetable pasta dishes with a creamy twist!

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 large leeks, cleaned, trimmed, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 lb mushrooms (white or brown)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 2 Tbsp fresh or frozen chopped dill (substitute parsley if needed)
• 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1/8 tsp pepper (to taste)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• 12 oz of your favorite pasta (cooked according to package instructions, drained and rinsed)

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Instructions:

How to Prepare Leeks:

1. Trim the roots and most of the green stems from the leeks (save the green parts for stock if desired).
2. Slice the leeks in half lengthwise, then cut into quarters. Slice each quarter thinly.
3. Rinse the sliced leeks thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt trapped between the layers. Drain well.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Leek Pasta:

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté for about 2 minutes until soft.
2. Cut the mushrooms into halves (or quarters if they are large) and add them to the pan, along with the pressed garlic. Continue to sauté, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes until the mushrooms become soft and browned.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the heavy whipping cream. Stir to combine.
4. Season the sauce with 2 tbsp chopped dill, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp pepper. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Toss the creamy mushroom and leek mixture over your cooked pasta, and mix well. Serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

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Tips

• Leek Prep: Leeks are tricky to clean, so make sure to rinse them well to remove all dirt. You can even soak them in a bowl of cold water and agitate them to help remove the grit.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute some of the heavy cream with milk or vegetable broth.
• Add More Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding spinach or kale to the sauté for an additional pop of color and vitamins.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Mushrooms: Feel free to experiment with other mushroom varieties, such as cremini, portobello, or shiitake for a deeper flavor profile.
• Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have dill, parsley is a great substitute. You can also try thyme or basil for a different flavor.
• Vegan Version: To make this dish vegan-friendly, swap out the cream for coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative, and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with any type of pasta, from fettuccine to penne to gluten-free pasta.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before serving.

Q: How do I get the pasta to be perfectly coated in sauce?
A: Be sure to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining the noodles. Adding a little bit of this starchy water to the sauce can help it better adhere to the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve this creamy pasta with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Toppings: Garnish with extra grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, or red pepper flakes for added flavor and color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The creamy sauce, earthy mushrooms, and sweet leeks create a rich, comforting dish that is perfect for cozy dinners.
• Versatile: This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite pasta, herbs, and even additional vegetables.
• Quick & Easy: It’s an effortless meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner option.