Orecchiette Mushroom Thyme Sauce

Orecchiette with mushroom thyme sauce is the dinner I make when I need something cozy but just a little special. It brings that creamy restaurant feel right to your kitchen with basic ingredients and gentle, earthy flavors thanks to mushrooms and thyme.

The first time I paired orecchiette pasta with this creamy thyme mushroom sauce, it won over even the picky eaters at my house. Now it is our go-to when mushrooms are on sale or I want that comfort food feeling on a chilly evening.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Thick-cut bacon: creates a smoky backdrop and crunchy topping be sure to look for slabs with a nice balance of fat and meat
• Orecchiette pasta: cradles the sauce in every bite the little cups hold extra goodness
• Unsalted butter: for a creamy base use high-quality dairy for best flavor
• Button mushrooms: offer a mild earthy taste select firm mushrooms free from slime or dark spots
• Minced garlic: provides aromatic depth fresh garlic tastes brightest but jarred works in a pinch
• Cornstarch: thickens the sauce into a silky coating verify it is fresh to avoid lumps
• Half-and-half: brings richness and balances the bacon milk combo use cream if you like it extra indulgent
• Whole milk: lightens the sauce without sacrificing flavor use organic or local for pure taste
• Kosher salt and black pepper: sharpen all the flavors use flaked kosher salt for even seasoning
• Fresh thyme: gives aromatic woodsy notes tender sprigs are most flavorful you can use dried thyme but use less since it is more concentrated

How to Make It

Sauté the Mushrooms:

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat then add the sliced mushrooms Spread them out and let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes This step lets the mushrooms brown and develop a deep flavor

Add Garlic and Continue Cooking:

Flip the mushrooms over and sprinkle in the minced garlic Resist stirring again and let everything cook for another 3 to 4 minutes This adds that toasted garlicky note without burning

Create the Sauce Base:

In a separate small bowl whisk the cornstarch into the half-and-half until completely smooth Pour this creamy mixture into the skillet along with the milk Stir in the crumbled cooked bacon salt pepper and thyme Toss in Parmesan cheese at this point if you feel bold

Simmer to Thicken:

Adjust the heat to medium-low Let the sauce gently simmer for 6 to 8 minutes Stir every couple of minutes so nothing sticks The sauce should look glossy and cling to your spoon

Combine with Pasta:

Add the cooked orecchiette to your skillet Toss everything together until the little pasta cups soak up the creamy sauce Taste for seasoning and serve warm for best results

Thyme is my favorite ingredient here Fresh thyme brings a soft fragrance that transforms the whole meal Last Easter my niece spent the afternoon helping me pick leaves from a thyme bundle for this pasta and she still calls it her special magic herb

Flavor Boosters

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge They stay good for up to three days Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk to help the sauce stay creamy Avoid freezing as the creamy sauce may become grainy

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemony dressing for contrast Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the table A side of garlic bread turns this into a hearty cozy meal

Creative Twists

Orecchiette means little ears in Italian and hails from the Puglia region Their cup shape is perfect for thick sauces like this Creamy mushroom sauces pair beautifully with rustic pasta shapes in classic Italian cooking

Each time I make it for family I get requests for the sauce recipe on its own It is even great as a base for baked chicken or as a filling for savory crepes With a few basic steps you will have a restaurant-worthy pasta night at home

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orecchiette with other small pasta shapes like farfalle or penne, though orecchiette holds the sauce well.

→ What mushrooms work best?

Button mushrooms are great, but cremini or a mix of wild mushrooms add deeper flavor and texture.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth in place of bacon for added depth if desired.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What can I serve alongside?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.