Morel Mushroom Cream Sauce with Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant Yet Simple: This dish combines the complex flavors of morel mushrooms with the smooth texture of a cream sauce, creating a sophisticated yet simple meal.

• Perfect for Special Occasions: It’s perfect for dinner guests or an elevated meal, offering restaurant-quality flavors at home.

• Seasonal Delight: Morel mushrooms are a springtime delicacy, and this dish allows you to savor them at their best. You can also use dried morels for year-round enjoyment.

• Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, making each bite rich and comforting while the fresh herbs balance the flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 ounce dried morel mushrooms (or 4 ounces fresh morels, cleaned)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 medium shallots, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar or white grape juice

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 12 ounces fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Morels: If using dried morels, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes. Drain and rinse gently to remove any grit, then slice.

2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

3. Sauté the Shallots and Garlic: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Cook the Morels: Add the morel mushrooms and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

5. Deglaze with Apple Cider Vinegar or Grape Juice: Pour in the apple cider vinegar or white grape juice and let it reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.

6. Make the Cream Sauce: Stir in the cream, thyme, and parsley. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

8. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use Fresh Mushrooms: If fresh morels are available, substitute for the dried ones for a lighter, fresher flavor.

• Add Protein:pancetta for extra richness and texture. Enhance the dish by adding seared scallops, grilled chicken, or pancetta for extra richness and texture.

• Go Vegan: Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives to make this recipe vegan-friendly without sacrificing the creamy texture.

• Infuse with Truffle: For an even more indulgent experience, add a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of truffle salt before serving.

• Add Lemon Zest: For a bit of brightness, a touch of lemon zest added at the end brings out the herbs and lightens the creaminess.

• Swap the Pasta: You can use gluten-free pasta like rice or chickpea pasta to suit dietary preferences.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s consistency.

• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy texture and the delicate nature of morel mushrooms.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Yes, other mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or chanterelle can be used, though they will offer a slightly different flavor profile.

2. Can I use dried mushrooms for this dish?

Yes, dried morels work perfectly for this recipe and can be rehydrated to bring out their rich flavor. The soaking liquid can even be added to the sauce for extra depth.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Fettuccine or tagliatelle are ideal, but other pasta like pappardelle or linguine can be used as well.

5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes or add a small amount of flour or cornstarch to the sauce.

7. Can I add more cream to the sauce?

Yes, if you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add more heavy cream to the recipe to achieve your desired richness.

8. How do I clean fresh morels?

To clean fresh morels, rinse them gently under cold water, and use a brush to remove any dirt. Be sure to cut them in half to check for any insects hiding inside.

9. Can I add protein to this dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with seared scallops, grilled chicken, or pancetta. Feel free to add any protein of your choice to complement the sauce.

10. What wine should I serve with this dish?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish. For a richer experience, a light Pinot Noir is also a great choice.

Conclusion

Morel Mushroom Cream Sauce with Pasta is a sophisticated yet simple dish that celebrates the earthy flavors of morel mushrooms. Whether you use fresh or dried mushrooms, this recipe elevates a classic pasta dish with a rich, creamy sauce that is perfect for any occasion. Ideal for dinner parties, family meals, or a cozy evening at home, this dish is a true culinary gem that highlights the beauty of seasonal ingredients and offers a truly indulgent experience.