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
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.
Notes
- White miso provides a mild, savory flavor without overpowering the sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add fresh spinach or peas to the sauce for extra vegetables and color.
- Reserve pasta water is key to achieving a silky sauce texture.
- Use fresh Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion