Mushroom and Garlic Spaghetti Dinner

When I want to impress people with a meatless dinner, I almost always include lots of mushrooms in the equation. Their umami-rich flavor and meaty texture have a way of winning over even the most staunch meat eater at the table. 

This vegetarian pasta proves this point: A slew of mushrooms are sautéed with a mix of olive oil, butter, and lots of garlic to become a rich sauce for simple spaghetti. Extra nutty, salty Pecorino Romano cheese replaces the usual Parmesan to up the savory factor of the pasta even further and make it one anyone with a fork in their hand will want to twirl. Oh, plus there's the added bonus that this dish comes together in just about 15 minutes.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound dry spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

INTRUCTIONS:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, 7 to 9 minutes, or according to package instructions. Reserve 3/4 cup of the cooking water, drain the pasta, and set it aside.
2. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of the butter and the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned and tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and remaining 2 tablespoons butter and sauté for 1 minute more.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti, reserved cooking water, and 1/2 cup cheese. Toss and stir until the water has just evaporated and the cheese has melted into the pasta, about 2 minutes. Add the parsley and toss once more to combine. Serve in shallow bowls, sprinkling with additional grated cheese over each serving.

Recipe Notes

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

More Deliciouse Recipe Mushroom and Garlic Spaghetti Dinner @ thekitchn.com