Garlic Herb Butter Noodles with Mushrooms & Thyme is a simple yet flavorful pasta dish that combines tender noodles, earthy mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and fresh thyme in a rich butter sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or as a side for a more elaborate meal. The combination of garlic and herbs infuses the noodles with deep flavor, while mushrooms add a meaty texture that makes the dish hearty and satisfying.

This recipe is elegant enough to serve for guests yet easy enough for everyday meals. Its rich, buttery sauce and fragrant herbs make it a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The garlic and thyme create an aromatic base, while the butter and mushrooms add richness and texture. It’s versatile, vegetarian-friendly, and can be adapted with other herbs or vegetables.

It’s also incredibly comforting, perfect for when you want a warm and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it turns simple pantry ingredients into a delicious, restaurant-quality meal. The combination of garlic, butter, mushrooms, and thyme is classic and comforting, while the noodles absorb all the flavors beautifully.

It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~400 kcal
Course: Main Course / Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or your choice)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook 5-6 minutes until browned and tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme
Add minced garlic and thyme to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic-herb butter. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to help the sauce coat the noodles evenly. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms 5-6 minutes until browned.
3. Add garlic and thyme, sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Toss cooked pasta into the skillet with mushrooms and garlic-herb butter. Add reserved pasta water gradually to coat evenly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley, then serve hot.

How to Serve

Serve Garlic Herb Butter Noodles with Mushrooms & Thyme as a main course or a side dish. Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use a mix of mushroom varieties for more depth of flavor.
• Don’t overcook garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
• Fresh thyme gives the best flavor, but dried thyme works as well.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if desired.

Variations

• Add spinach, kale, or arugula for extra greens.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
• Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for added protein.
• Substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet, tangy twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Best served fresh; freezing is not recommended as butter-based sauce may separate.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or tongs for tossing pasta and sauce

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen mushrooms?
A: Yes, thaw and drain excess water before sautéing to prevent sogginess.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Substitute butter with plant-based butter and omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Q: Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
A: Yes, use half the amount of dried thyme as fresh.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work well.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare pasta and mushroom mixture separately and reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Butter Noodles with Mushrooms & Thyme is a simple, flavorful, and comforting dish that elevates everyday pasta with earthy mushrooms and aromatic herbs. Quick to prepare and full of rich flavor, it is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or a special occasion. Creamy, fragrant, and satisfying, this dish is a must-try for anyone seeking an easy yet elegant pasta recipe.