If you’ve ever dreamed of a pasta that brings together indulgent creaminess with the deep, umami richness of mushrooms and miso, this Creamy Miso Mushroom Pasta Recipe is your next kitchen adventure. It’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated, coaxing out the earthy flavors of cremini or shiitake mushrooms while wrapping everything in a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises to turn a simple meal into an irresistible experience you’ll want to share again and again.

Creamy Miso Mushroom Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is delightfully straightforward, relying on a handful of essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and satisfying textures. From the creamy base to the savory umami punch, every component works in harmony to make this dish truly shine.

12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or linguine): Choose a pasta that holds the sauce well, creating the perfect bite every time.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a gentle fruitiness and helps sauté the mushrooms beautifully.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Elevates the richness in the sauce and balances the miso’s saltiness.
12 ounces mushrooms (cremini or shiitake), sliced: The star ingredient bringing earthiness and texture.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
1 tablespoon white miso paste: Delivers a mild, savory umami flavor essential for that distinct creaminess.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
1/2 cup vegetable broth: Lightens the sauce slightly and blends flavors seamlessly.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish to the creamy sauce.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle spicy kick to balance the richness.
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional): Boosts umami and adds depth; consider your salt preferences when adding.
2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley for garnish: Injects freshness and a pop of color on top.

How to Make Creamy Miso Mushroom Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt is key here because it flavors the pasta from the inside out. Slide in your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s tender but still chewy—al dente is the goal. Before draining, be sure to reserve half a cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid will work wonders later on when we bring the sauce together to silky smooth perfection.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once heated, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes until they release their moisture and start to turn golden brown. This step is crucial to draw out their natural umami flavors and get that lovely meaty texture that makes this dish so satisfying.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Miso Broth

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook just for 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—you want it to be noticeable but not burnt. Mix the white miso paste with the vegetable broth in a small bowl until smooth, then pour this mixture into the skillet with your mushrooms. This creates a flavorful base, enriching the sauce with that unique tangy, savory miso character.

Step 4: Pour in Cream and Thicken the Sauce

Follow up by adding the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring everything together gently. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 3 to 5 minutes so it thickens slightly, becoming luscious and creamy. This step melds the flavors beautifully, thickening the sauce just enough to cling to the pasta later.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese, Seasonings, and Pasta

Off the heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and the soy sauce if you are using it. The Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding richness and salty complexity, while the black pepper brightens the overall flavor. Then, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, coating every strand in that irresistible sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of your reserved pasta water to loosen it up and achieve that silky consistency. Finally, taste and adjust the salt as needed.

How to Serve Creamy Miso Mushroom Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

To add a fresh contrast and a pop of color, sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley right before serving. These herbs brighten the richness of the sauce and introduce a subtle crunch that balances the creamy texture perfectly.

Side Dishes

This pasta stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, perhaps dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, also complement this dish nicely, rounding out a wholesome meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve this pasta in warm shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few shavings of Parmesan on top. For a more rustic vibe, toss in some sautéed spinach or peas for pops of green that make the dish even more inviting and vibrant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so it may look a little dense at first, but one quick stir while reheating brings it back to life beautifully.

Freezing

This pasta doesn’t freeze exceptionally well due to the dairy content, which can separate upon thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or keep leftovers for short-term refrigeration instead of freezing.

Reheating

The best way to reheat creamy miso mushroom pasta is gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and stir frequently to keep it smooth and warm evenly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the sauce separate.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While cremini and shiitake mushrooms provide that rich umami flavor and meaty texture, you can experiment with button, portobello, or even oyster mushrooms depending on your preference. Each variety offers a slightly different flavor profile but will still taste delicious.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version of this dish, half-and-half works well and still keeps the sauce creamy, though slightly less rich. For dairy-free options, full-fat coconut milk can be used, but it will introduce a subtle coconut flavor.

How important is the miso paste?

Miso paste is essential for giving this pasta its unique savory depth and slight tang. White miso is preferred for its mildness that won’t overpower the dish. Avoid skipping it or substitute with soy sauce only, as it won’t create the same creamy umami complexity.

Can I make this vegan?

You can make this recipe vegan by swapping the butter for olive oil or a vegan butter substitute, using a plant-based cream like cashew cream, omitting the Parmesan or using a vegan cheese alternative, and making sure the miso is vegan-friendly (most are, but always check labels).

What pasta works best in this recipe?

Fettuccine or linguine are ideal because their flat shape holds the creamy miso mushroom sauce beautifully. However, other long pasta like spaghetti or pappardelle can work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Miso Mushroom Pasta Recipe is a magnificent celebration of flavors and textures that feels indulgent without being complicated. It’s a perfect dish to cozy up with any night of the week, offering something a little special yet surprisingly easy to pull off. I truly hope you give it a try and discover how satisfying and delicious a bowl of pasta can be when infused with the magic of miso and mushrooms.

Creamy Miso Mushroom Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 44 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Miso Mushroom Pasta combines tender pasta with a rich, umami-packed sauce made from white miso, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The luxurious cream sauce is enhanced with vegetable broth and a touch of soy sauce, creating a perfect balance of savory flavors in a quick, comforting vegetarian main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 ounces pasta such as fettuccine or linguine

sauce and toppings

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
12 ounces mushrooms, sliced cremini or shiitake
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon white miso paste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté mushrooms: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until they are browned and most of their moisture has evaporated, enhancing their flavor.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Prepare miso mixture: In a small bowl, whisk the white miso paste with the vegetable broth until smooth. Add this mixture to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic.
Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Incorporate cheese and seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and soy sauce if using. This adds depth and saltiness to the sauce.
Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Use the reserved pasta water as needed to reach a silky, smooth consistency.
Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the pasta and adjust the salt or seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley and serve warm for the best flavor.