Introduction

Brown Butter Mushroom Pasta is a simple yet elegant dish that combines nutty browned butter with savory mushrooms and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe highlights rich flavors with minimal ingredients for maximum comfort.

A white plate filled with a nest of light golden spaghetti noodles mixed with sliced brown mushrooms, scattered with small crunchy orange-brown breadcrumbs, and sprinkled with finely chopped fresh green herbs on top. The noodles and mushrooms are intertwined evenly throughout the dish. A rose gold fork and spoon lay crossed above the noodles on the edge of the plate, which sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup fresh French style breadcrumbs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
8 ounces cremini mushrooms (thinly sliced)
4 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and toasted, about 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove breadcrumbs from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Melt butter in the same skillet over low heat, adding it one tablespoon at a time, until it begins to foam and turn golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Stir in sliced mushrooms and fresh thyme sprigs. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are tender and browned, about 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve the cooked spaghetti immediately, topped with the browned butter mushroom mixture and toasted breadcrumbs. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping if fresh French style breadcrumbs aren’t available.
Swap cremini mushrooms with shiitake or button mushrooms for different textures and flavors.
Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the mushrooms for a bright, acidic touch.
For a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and omit the breadcrumbs or use vegan breadcrumbs.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. The breadcrumbs are best added fresh to retain their crunch.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a serving of spaghetti mixed with sliced brown mushrooms and bits of golden breadcrumbs, all tossed together with small green herb flakes scattered on top. A metallic fork and spoon rest crossed on the edge of the plate. The whole setting is on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with various pasta shapes such as fettuccine, linguine, or even short pasta like penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

How do I know when the butter is browned?

Browned butter will foam and take on a golden to amber color, releasing a nutty aroma. Keep a close eye as it can go from browned to burnt quickly, so remove from heat as soon as you notice the change.