Ingredients:
- 6 ounces fettuccine or linguine
- 8 tablespoons butter, divided
- 8 ounces fresh, sliced mushrooms
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1 pound cooked medium shrimp, tails off
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or substitute 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1/2 cup boiling water (reserved from your noodle pot)
Instructions:
Prepare Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of water, generously salt it, and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- Save 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use in the recipe.
Sauté Mushrooms:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the sliced mushrooms until they are soft and brown, seasoning them with salt and pepper.
Creamy Sauce:
- Set aside the cooked mushrooms. Melt the remaining butter in the skillet.
- Add minced garlic, cream cheese, and herbs. Don’t worry if the cream cheese looks lumpy initially; it will smooth out.
Blend and Simmer:
- Simmer the cream cheese mixture until well blended.
- Take 1/2 cup of boiling pasta water and add it to the mixture, stirring and whisking quickly until the sauce becomes smooth.
Add Shrimp and Mushrooms:
- Keep the sauce hot and add shrimp and the sautéed mushrooms, mixing well.
- Simmer and stir often until everything is hot and thickened, approximately 5-6 minutes.
Toss and Serve:
- Toss the creamy sauce with the cooked noodles and serve immediately.
Why Choose Creamy Mushroom Shrimp Pasta?
Decadent Flavor Profile:
Indulge in the rich and velvety cream cheese sauce, complemented by the earthy goodness of mushrooms and the succulence of shrimp.
Quick and Easy:
This recipe is a breeze to make, providing a gourmet experience without the hassle.
Versatile:
Customize the dish by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
FAQs:
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
- A: Absolutely! Feel free to swap fettuccine or linguine with your preferred pasta variety.
- Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble when ready to serve.
- Q: What wine pairs well with Creamy Mushroom Shrimp Pasta?
- A: A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy texture and enhances the overall dining experience.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Creamy Mushroom Shrimp Pasta is a celebration of flavors that will leave you craving more. Elevate your pasta night with this decadent yet easy-to-make dish. Follow the steps, savor the creamy goodness, and enjoy a culinary journey that delights the taste buds!