Spaghetti with cheese sauce and mushrooms

Delicious Spaghetti with Cheese and Mushroom Sauce

Who doesn't love a comforting meal, full of flavors and textures? This spaghetti recipe with cheese and mushroom sauce is perfect for those days when you want to indulge in a savory dish that is simple to make. Whether you are preparing for a dinner with friends or a quick family meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

*Necessary ingredients:*

- 500 g spaghetti
- 70 g butter (preferably unsalted, for better flavor control)
- 100 g cheese (choose a mature cheese for a more intense taste)
- 100 g creamy cheese (adds a salty and creamy note)
- 200 g cow telemea cheese (opt for a less salty telemea to avoid an overly salty sauce)
- 400 ml cooking cream (choose a cream with at least 20% fat for a creamy consistency)
- 500 g frozen mushrooms (champignon mushrooms are ideal, but you can experiment with shiitake or portobello)
- Himalayan pink salt (or sea salt, to taste)
- Herbes de Provence (an aromatic mix that will add depth)
- Freshly ground pepper (for an extra flavor)

*Preparation:*

1. Preparing the cheeses: Start by grating the telemea and cheese, and break the creamy cheese into smaller pieces. This step will help you achieve a smooth and creamy sauce.

2. The mushrooms: In a wok, add the butter cut into cubes. Heat the pan over medium heat and wait until the butter is completely melted. Add the frozen mushrooms and let them soften. This step will take about 5-7 minutes, during which the water from the mushrooms will evaporate.

3. Preparing the sauce: Once the mushrooms are soft and the water has evaporated, add the cooking cream, cheeses, and spices (salt, pepper, and herbes de Provence). Simmer the sauce over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This time will allow the cheeses to melt and integrate perfectly into the sauce.

4. Boiling the spaghetti: In a separate pot, boil salted water and add the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Usually, they are boiled for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Make sure not to overcook them for the perfect texture.

5. The final combination: Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the pan with the cheese and mushroom sauce. Mix well to ensure that each strand of spaghetti is evenly coated with the delicious sauce.

6. Serving: Serve the spaghetti hot, sprinkled with a little freshly ground pepper and, if desired, a handful of freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. You can pair it with a crispy green salad or a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors on the plate.

*Practical tips:*

- Texture improvements: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add a spoon or two of mascarpone cheese during the sauce preparation.
- Cheese varieties: You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as brie or gorgonzola, to achieve different flavors.
- Fresh mushrooms: If you have fresh mushrooms available, use them instead of frozen ones. They will add a more intense flavor and better texture.
- Storing the sauce: If you have leftover sauce, you can use it to make mashed potatoes or as a filling for pies.

*Nutritional notes:*

This recipe is rich in protein due to the cheeses and mushrooms. Dairy products also provide calcium, essential for healthy bones. Depending on the ingredients used, one serving can contain approximately 600-700 calories, but offers a feeling of fullness that will satisfy your nutritional needs.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I make this sauce vegetarian?
Yes, make sure the cheeses used are rennet-free.

- How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can replace the spaghetti with whole grain pasta or vegetable pasta. Also, opt for cheeses with lower fat content.

- What other dishes pair well with this recipe?
An appetizer of arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and parmesan would perfectly complement the meal, and a dessert of fresh fruits or an apple tart would be a wonderful choice to finish the dinner.

This spaghetti recipe with cheese and mushroom sauce is not only simple but also full of flavor, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, it will surely bring smiles to everyone's faces! Enjoy!