Creamy Mushroom Steak Pappardelle

There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of tender steak, earthy mushrooms, and rich, creamy sauce all tossed with wide, silky pappardelle noodles. This Creamy Mushroom Steak Pappardelle is comfort food elevated—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly.

Why This Creamy Mushroom Steak Pappardelle Stands Out

What makes this dish shine is the balance of flavors and textures. The beef steaks are seared to juicy perfection, bringing a hearty, robust element. Meanwhile, the mushrooms add an earthiness that complements the meat beautifully. The heavy cream and beef broth create a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every ribbon of the pappardelle pasta. A dash of thyme infuses an aromatic note, and fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and brightness. Unlike many pasta dishes, this one feels both indulgent and satisfying without being overly complicated.

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes but want something beyond the usual Alfredo, this recipe is a must-try. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that hits all the right notes. And if you love exploring rich pasta recipes, don’t miss the Creamy Spinach And Artichoke Pasta for another decadent yet easy dinner idea.

What We’re Using

• 8 oz pappardelle pasta – Wide noodles perfect for holding creamy sauces.
• 2 medium beef steaks – Choose your favorite cut, such as sirloin or ribeye.
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced – Cremini or button mushrooms work well.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For that rich, silky sauce base.
• 1/2 cup beef broth – Adds depth and balances the cream.
• 1 small onion, chopped – Provides a subtle sweetness and flavor foundation.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic warmth.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing and sautéing.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Earthy herbaceous flavor that complements beef and mushrooms.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasoning to enhance all flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Brightens the dish with color and freshness.

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot – For boiling the pappardelle pasta.
• Large skillet or frying pan – To sear the steaks and sauté the mushrooms and aromatics.
• Sharp knife – For chopping onion, garlic, parsley, and slicing mushrooms.
• Tongs or slotted spoon – To handle the pasta and steaks easily.
• Colander – For draining the cooked pasta.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – To stir the sauce without scratching your pan.

Creamy Mushroom Steak Pappardelle Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of pappardelle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is shimmering, add the steaks and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness and your preferred doneness. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest on a cutting board. After resting, slice the steaks thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and dried thyme, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 6-7 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the 1/2 cup beef broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth reduce slightly for about 2 minutes. Then, lower the heat and stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pappardelle and sliced steak back into the skillet with the creamy mushroom sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Once combined and heated through, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for garnish.

Serve immediately for a decadent dinner that feels like a special occasion but comes together with ease. Pair it with a crisp salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal. For a different kind of meat twist, you might enjoy pairing your steak with some flavorful Beef Fajitas another time.

Customize for Your Needs

• Swap mushrooms: Try shiitake, portobello, or a wild mushroom mix for deeper flavor.
• Change the protein: Use chicken breast or thighs if you prefer poultry over beef.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the steak and add extra mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Add greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale at the end for added color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for some heat.
• Cheese it up: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for an extra savory boost.

If You’re Curious

This dish beautifully showcases how simple ingredients can transform into something truly special with a few kitchen techniques. Searing the steak locks in juices and creates a caramelized crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce. Sautéing the mushrooms until golden enhances their earthy flavor and adds texture. The use of pappardelle noodles, wider than typical spaghetti or fettuccine, allows the sauce to cling and coat every bite, giving you a luxuriously satisfying mouthfeel.

And while heavy cream creates that rich, velvety sauce, balancing it with beef broth keeps it from becoming too heavy or one-dimensional. The hint of thyme introduces a fragrant note that ties the whole dish together.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare this Creamy Mushroom Steak Pappardelle ahead of time by cooking the steak and mushrooms separately, then combining with freshly cooked pasta just before serving. If you plan to store leftovers, place the pasta and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

For best texture, avoid freezing this dish as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. Instead, freeze the cooked steak and mushrooms separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to eat.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While pappardelle’s wide shape is ideal for holding creamy sauces, you can substitute with fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even rigatoni if that’s what you have on hand.

What’s the best cut of steak to use?

Sirloin, ribeye, or strip steak all work wonderfully. Choose a cut you enjoy eating and that’s quick to cook. Just be sure to slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Swap heavy cream for a full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream alternative. Keep in mind the flavor profile will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious and creamy.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Keep the heat moderate when adding cream and simmering the sauce. Avoid boiling vigorously, which can cause the cream to separate. Stir frequently and add broth or reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

You Might Also Like

• Creamy Spinach And Artichoke Pasta – Another rich and flavorful pasta dish perfect for creamy pasta lovers.
• Beef Fajitas – A zesty and vibrant way to enjoy tender beef with peppers and onions.

Wrap-Up

This Creamy Mushroom Steak Pappardelle recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight dinners with minimal fuss. The combination of juicy steak, earthy mushrooms, and rich cream sauce over tender pappardelle noodles creates a dish that feels decadent yet approachable. The simple ingredient list and straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels, and it’s endlessly customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy every appetite.

Enjoy diving into this creamy, comforting meal that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen table!

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