Creamy Beef And Mushroom Pasta

Name: Creamy Beef And Mushroom Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1/2 cup white wine (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Homestyle Cooking

I love pasta, and this Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta has quickly become one of my favorites! The rich and savory flavors of the beef combine beautifully with earthy mushrooms and a luscious cream sauce. It's one of those dishes that's perfect for cozy dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients, making it a go-to in my weekly meal rotation.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:06:36.365Z

When I first made this Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta, I was amazed at how all the flavors melded together. The key is to sauté the mushrooms until they are golden brown before adding the beef. This enhances their umami flavor, making every bite a delight. I also found that using a splash of white wine in the sauce elevates the dish, giving it a restaurant-quality taste right at home.

Another tip I discovered is to reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps to thicken the sauce, creating a glossy finish that clings perfectly to the pasta. I’ve made this dish for friends multiple times, and it never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich beef flavor enhanced by savory mushrooms
Silky cream sauce that brings everything together
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta plays a pivotal role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. The ground beef not only adds richness but also contributes protein, making the dish hearty and satisfying. When selecting mushrooms, choose fresh varieties like cremini or button; they offer earthy tones that complement the meat beautifully. For the cream sauce, heavy cream is preferred due to its richness, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version if desired.

The combination of white wine adds a layer of acidity that brightens the overall flavor profile, cutting through the richness of the cream and beef. If you're concerned about alcohol content or prefer to skip it, additional beef broth can be used for flavor without the wine. The optional addition of fresh parsley as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a burst of freshness that balances the dish’s creaminess.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the fettuccine, it’s essential to monitor the pasta closely. Overcooking can lead to mushy noodles that won’t hold up well in the creamy sauce. Aim for al dente texture, which can typically be achieved by cooking for about two minutes less than the package instructions recommend. This step is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.

For browning the beef, ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the meat. This prevents moisture from being released, allowing for proper browning, which adds depth to the flavor. Use a wooden spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks, which promotes even browning and prevents it from clumping together. Brown the meat until it’s no longer pink, usually around 5-7 minutes on medium-high heat for optimal results.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious cream pasta dish:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb ground beef
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 cup white wine (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy beef and mushroom pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they are golden brown.

Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

Make the Sauce

Add the minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 2 minutes, then add the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together, and let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

Combine

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Serve

Plate the pasta, and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Enjoy your creamy beef and mushroom pasta!

Dig in and savor every bite of this delicious pasta!

Pro Tips

For a healthy twist, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, feel free to add more vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers to the mix for extra nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep since it stores and reheats well. After cooking, allow the pasta to cool before transferring it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to restore its creamy texture without drying out the pasta. Heat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the beef and mushroom sauce in advance. This sauce can be made a day or two before and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it, cook your fettuccine fresh, and combine the two when ready to serve for maximum flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta, consider pairing it with a fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will balance the richness of the dish beautifully. Additionally, serving it with crusty garlic bread is a fantastic way to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate, making each bite even more satisfying.

For a family-style presentation, serve the pasta directly from the skillet at the table, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley. This not only makes for an impressive display but encourages everyone to dig in while the dish is warm and comforting. You can even offer some red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a touch of heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half and half or coconut milk for a lighter alternative, but the texture may differ.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy pasta dish.