Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something warm, comforting, and utterly delicious? Then look no further than this creamy mushroom soup pasta recipe! This easy recipe transforms humble ingredients into a decadent and satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. It's quick to make, incredibly flavorful, and easily customizable to your taste – the ultimate in homemade cooking!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Let's get started!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced (or a mix of mushrooms for extra depth of flavor!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 7-10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a deep, earthy mushroom flavor.
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Build the Soup Base: Pour in the vegetable broth and cream of mushroom soup. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Cook the Pasta: Add your chosen pasta to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb some of the delicious soup liquid, creating a creamy, cohesive dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the pasta is cooked al dente, serve immediately. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an extra touch of elegance.
Cooking Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Soup Pasta
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When sautéing the mushrooms, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a vibrant, fresh aroma and flavor that elevates the dish. If you don't have fresh thyme, dried thyme works well too.
- Adjust the creaminess: For a richer, creamier soup, add more heavy cream or even a splash of milk. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even just the cream of mushroom soup.
- Add protein: Boost the nutritional value and make this a complete meal by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen!
- Spicy Mushroom Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Vegetarian Mushroom Pasta: Ensure your vegetable broth and cream of mushroom soup are vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
This creamy mushroom soup pasta recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It's a delicious and easy weeknight dinner solution, perfect for busy individuals or families. Enjoy!