Orecchiette with Mushroom Thyme Sauce – Packed with flavor!

This recipe brings together tender orecchiette pasta and a creamy mushroom thyme sauce that feels rich yet simple to prepare. The mushrooms cook down until golden, releasing savory depth that blends beautifully with garlic, shallots, and fresh thyme. A splash of cream ties everything together, coating the pasta in a velvety sauce that clings to every curve of the orecchiette. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy enough to make on a weeknight.

Perfect for when you want something satisfying but not complicated, this pasta dish layers earthy flavors with just the right amount of creaminess. Orecchiette is the ideal choice here because its cup-like shape captures bits of mushroom and sauce in every bite. The combination of herbs, tender pasta, and rich sauce creates a dish that tastes elegant enough for guests but practical enough for everyday cooking. It’s a timeless recipe you’ll return to often.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta recipe blends elegance with ease, giving you a meal that feels both hearty and polished.

Comforting flavor: Creamy mushroom thyme sauce brings earthy, rich notes.

Weeknight-friendly: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Perfect texture: Orecchiette pasta holds the sauce beautifully.

Crowd-pleaser: Loved by both mushroom fans and pasta lovers alike.

Flexible: Works well with different mushrooms or pasta varieties.

Balanced: Creaminess meets fresh herbs for a well-rounded dish.

Here’s a little tip: finishing the pasta with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil makes the flavors pop even more. It adds a restaurant-style touch without adding extra effort.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 oz orecchiette pasta
  
• 3 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tbsp butter
  
• 2 shallots, finely diced
  
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1 lb mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or button), sliced
  
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
  
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
  
• 1 cup heavy cream
  
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  
• Salt and 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. Add orecchiette and cook until al dente, following package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. The starchy water will help loosen and thicken the sauce later if needed.

2. Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. This base lays down layers of flavor for the sauce.

3. Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh thyme, letting the herbs infuse into the mushrooms.

4. Build the Sauce

Pour in broth and stir, scraping the bottom of the skillet to pick up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then reduce heat slightly and add cream. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and begins to thicken. Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained orecchiette to the skillet. Toss well to coat each piece with sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the mixture feels too thick. Taste and adjust with extra salt or pepper if needed.

6. Serve and Garnish

Spoon the pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, extra thyme, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve warm, letting the flavors shine through in every bite.

Tips & Variations

• Earthier taste: Use wild mushrooms like porcini or oyster.
  
• Cream alternative: Swap cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
  
• Extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine before the broth.
  
• Vegan option: Use dairy-free cream and omit Parmesan.
  
• Hearty twist: Stir in spinach, kale, or peas for extra veggies.
  
• Protein boost: Top with grilled chicken or shrimp.
  

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is satisfying on its own, but you can round out the meal with complementary sides. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce. Warm garlic bread or a rustic baguette pairs perfectly for dipping into the creamy sauce. For drinks, a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon works beautifully. Leftovers reheat nicely, making it a practical choice for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Orecchiette with Mushroom Thyme Sauce delivers a balance of earthy mushrooms, creamy sauce, and perfectly shaped pasta that captures every flavor. The dish feels indulgent while staying approachable for home cooks of any level. Whether you serve it for a quiet dinner or as part of a larger spread, it always leaves a lasting impression. Packed with flavor and full of comfort, this pasta makes its way into your regular rotation with ease.