Mushroom Ricotta Pasta: Creamy, Comforting, and Simple to Make

There’s something magical about a pasta dish that feels indulgent yet light, comforting yet fresh. Enter Mushroom Ricotta Pasta—a creamy, flavorful meal that combines earthy mushrooms with the smooth, luscious texture of ricotta cheese. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a casual date night, or whenever you want a bowl of pasta that feels sophisticated without being complicated.

The first time I made this recipe, I was drawn to the simplicity of ingredients and the richness of flavors. Sautéed mushrooms release their natural umami, the garlic adds fragrant warmth, and the ricotta and Parmesan create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of pasta. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and requires just one skillet for the mushrooms and sauce, making cleanup a breeze. This dish is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy—it can be fresh, flavorful, and elegant all at once.

Whether you’re a mushroom lover or just looking for a creamy, vegetarian pasta option, this Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is guaranteed to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests.

Recipe Overview

Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is a creamy, one-pan pasta dish featuring sautéed cremini mushrooms, garlic, ricotta, and Parmesan, tossed with al dente pasta. The reserved pasta water creates a silky sauce that coats every strand perfectly. Quick, comforting, and full of flavor, this pasta is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or effortless dinner parties.

Ingredients & Instructions

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this simple yet luxurious pasta dish:

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb (450g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup reserved pasta water
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water to help create a creamy sauce. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Tip: Reserving pasta water is essential—it’s starchy, helps bind the sauce, and ensures the ricotta coats the noodles evenly.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden and tender, about 5–7 minutes. Mushrooms release their natural juices as they cook, concentrating the flavor and creating a savory base for the sauce.

3. Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of pasta water to the ricotta if you want a silkier texture before adding it to the pasta.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the mushrooms. Fold in the ricotta mixture, gradually adding the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Stir gently to coat every strand of pasta with creamy goodness.

6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Optional: Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy finish.

Cooking Tips & Variations

1. Add More Flavor

Use a splash of white wine while sautéing mushrooms for depth.
Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious touch.

2. Try Different Mushrooms

Cremini are earthy and versatile, but shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms work beautifully as well.

3. Make It Vegan

Swap ricotta for cashew cream or vegan ricotta and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative.

4. Boost Texture

Toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top add crunch.
Add baby spinach or arugula in the last minute of cooking for color and nutrients.

5. Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

Storage

Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Use a skillet over low heat, stirring gently, and add a little pasta water if the sauce has thickened.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino for an extra burst of flavor.

Mushroom Ricotta Pasta is a perfect example of simple ingredients creating a luxurious, satisfying dish. Creamy ricotta, earthy mushrooms, and tender pasta come together in a comforting yet light meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s versatile, elegant, and easy enough for weeknight dinners while still impressive enough for guests.

This pasta proves that comfort food can be fresh, flavorful, and made without fuss—just quality ingredients, careful cooking, and a touch of love. Every forkful delivers creaminess, umami, and a hint of freshness that will keep you coming back for more.