If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make, then this Creamy Roasted Garlic Mushroom Penne is exactly what you need. With the rich, mellow flavor of roasted garlic and the earthy depth of sautéed mushrooms wrapped in a luscious, creamy sauce, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to linger at the table just a bit longer, savoring every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend treat, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a satisfying masterpiece.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Creamy Roasted Garlic Mushroom Penne stands out because it balances simplicity with gourmet flair. Roasting the garlic softens its sharpness and brings out a sweet, caramelized nuance that transforms the entire sauce. Mushrooms add a meaty texture and umami richness, complementing the cream and Parmesan beautifully. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe — easily customizable with your favorite herbs or a splash of white wine for an extra depth of flavor. It also comes together quickly, making it a dependable weeknight winner that feels far from ordinary.

What Goes Into Creamy Roasted Garlic Mushroom Penne

8 oz penne pasta – The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
2 tbsp olive oil – For roasting garlic and sautéing the mushrooms, adding a fruity richness.
1 head of garlic – Roasted whole to mellow its flavor and infuse the sauce.
8 oz mushrooms, sliced – Cremini or button mushrooms work well; they provide an earthy, satisfying bite.
1 cup heavy cream – Creates the decadent, silky sauce that coats every penne piece.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty note that enhances the sauce’s depth.
Salt to taste – Essential for balancing the flavors.
Pepper to taste – Freshly ground for a subtle kick.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens the dish with a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness.

Prep & Cook Tools

Roasting pan or small baking dish – For roasting the garlic evenly.
Large pot – To boil the penne pasta perfectly al dente.
Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook the mushrooms and build the creamy sauce.
Colander – For draining the pasta efficiently.
Knife and cutting board – To slice mushrooms and chop parsley.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.

Method: Creamy Roasted Garlic Mushroom Penne

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, wrap it tightly in foil, and roast for about 30-35 minutes until soft and fragrant. Once cooled, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them gently with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 9-11 minutes. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms

Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the mashed roasted garlic to the skillet with mushrooms. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss gently to coat every piece in the creamy garlic mushroom sauce. Cook together for another minute to let the pasta absorb some of the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

If you love the way roasted garlic elevates this pasta, you might also enjoy the Roasted Garlic Tomato Tortellini Bake for your next dinner adventure.

Smart Substitutions

Pasta: Use gluten-free penne or whole wheat penne for different dietary needs.
Heavy cream: Substitute with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan cheese: Nutritional yeast or a plant-based Parmesan alternative works well for a vegan twist.
Mushrooms: Try shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms for varied textures and flavors.
Olive oil: Avocado oil or grapeseed oil can be used if you prefer a neutral flavor.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta. Always cook penne until just al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when tossed in the sauce.
Skipping the garlic roasting step. Raw garlic is sharp and pungent—roasting mellows its flavor and adds a sweet, subtle richness essential to this dish.
Not seasoning the mushrooms while sautéing. A pinch of salt during cooking helps draw out moisture and enhances their natural umami.
Adding cheese too early. Parmesan melts best when added off the heat or on low heat to prevent clumping.
Neglecting to reserve pasta water. The starchy water is key to adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Store leftover Creamy Roasted Garlic Mushroom Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid separating the cream. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Handy Q&A

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roasted garlic and sautéed mushrooms a day ahead and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and combine everything with cream and cheese. This keeps the pasta texture perfect.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini or button mushrooms are ideal for their mild flavor and firm texture, but shiitake or portobello also bring a deeper umami profile. Feel free to mix varieties for complexity.

Is there a way to lighten this recipe?

Yes! Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt (added off heat) to reduce fat while keeping creaminess. Just be mindful that the sauce will be less rich.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

Try stirring in a splash of white wine when cooking mushrooms or sprinkle in some fresh thyme or rosemary along with the parsley. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle heat.

If you enjoy the combination of mushrooms and creamy textures, don’t miss the Mushroom Thyme Pearl Couscous Pilaf, another dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for cozy nights.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Creamy Tomato Parmesan Penne – A slightly lighter twist with bright tomato notes.
Mushroom Thyme Pearl Couscous Pilaf – A wholesome grain dish packed with mushroom goodness.
Roasted Garlic Tomato Tortellini Bake – A baked pasta that highlights that irresistible roasted garlic flavor.

Final Bite

This Creamy Roasted Garlic Mushroom Penne is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. The blend of roasted garlic’s mellow sweetness and the mushrooms’ earthy depth in a rich, cheesy sauce makes it a dish you’ll want to keep coming back to. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy. So grab your skillet, roast that garlic, and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of creamy, dreamy goodness tonight!

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