Ingredients:

8 ounces orecchiette pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

12 ounces mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

½ cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

½ cup heavy cream

Salt and pepper, to taste

cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

Boil Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt is essential as it flavors the pasta while it cooks.

Cook Orecchiette: Once the water is boiling, add the orecchiette pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to create a creamy sauce later.

Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep the starch that will help the sauce adhere.

Preparing the Mushroom Thyme Sauce

Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.

Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.

Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and have released their moisture.

Season with Thyme: Sprinkle in the fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme if that’s what you have). Stir well to combine and let the flavors meld for about 1 minute.

Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, letting the broth reduce slightly.

Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the Parmesan cheese will add some saltiness, so be cautious with the salt.

Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained orecchiette to the skillet with the mushroom thyme sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creaminess.

Heat Through: Allow the pasta to heat through for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step ensures that the pasta absorbs some of the sauce flavors.

Garnish: Once everything is well combined and heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving the Dish

Plate the Pasta: Serve the orecchiette with mushroom thyme sauce in bowls. You can use tongs or a large spoon to twirl the pasta into a nice mound.

Add More Cheese: Top each serving with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. This adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Final Touches: For an extra touch, you can drizzle a little more olive oil over the top or add a few more sprigs of fresh thyme for garnish.

Enjoy: Sit down and enjoy your delicious orecchiette with mushroom thyme sauce! This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

In summary, this Orecchiette Mushroom Thyme Sauce recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pasta game. The combination of tender orecchiette, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant thyme creates a dish that is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for yourself or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe is sure to delight.

For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition.

I encourage you to give this Orecchiette Mushroom Thyme Sauce a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!

Orecchiette Mushroom Thyme Sauce: A Deliciously Simple Recipe for Pasta Lovers

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

Preparing the Pasta

Preparing the Mushroom Thyme Sauce

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Serving the Dish

Storage and Reheating Tips