If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day, it’s pasta. But let’s face it—sometimes plain spaghetti just doesn’t cut it. That’s where Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto comes in. It’s hearty, earthy, and packed with flavor, yet surprisingly easy to whip up.
This dish brings together tender mushrooms, nutty walnut pesto, and perfectly cooked penne for a combination that feels gourmet but fits right into a busy mom’s schedule. At Momy’s Secret Recipes, my goal is to share recipes that are both practical and special enough to make any dinner feel like an occasion. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto is:
- Flavorful: The richness of sautéed mushrooms and the nutty complexity of walnut pesto create a deeply satisfying dish.
- Versatile: It works as a vegetarian main, but you can easily add chicken, shrimp, or even grilled veggies for variety.
- Simple Yet Elegant: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual dinner party, this pasta looks and tastes impressive.
What’s in Walnut Pesto?
Traditional pesto usually features pine nuts, but swapping them for walnuts adds a toasty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with mushrooms. Plus, walnuts are a budget-friendly alternative that’s packed with omega-3s.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Walnut Pesto:
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- ⅓ cup olive oil (plus more as needed)
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- Grated Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Walnut Pesto
In a food processor, combine toasted walnuts, basil, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.
Pro Tip: If your pesto feels too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of water or additional olive oil.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Combine Everything
Lower the heat and stir the walnut pesto into the mushrooms. Add the reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce and create a silky texture. If you’re in the mood for a creamier dish, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Add the cooked penne and toss everything together until evenly coated.
5. Serve and Garnish
Divide the pasta into bowls, then top with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips to Elevate Your Mushroom Penne
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a richer flavor, but feel free to experiment with shiitake or portobello for even more depth.
- Toast the Walnuts: A quick toast in a dry skillet enhances the nutty flavor of the pesto.
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken or shrimp works beautifully in this dish if you want to add some extra heartiness.
Perfect Pairings
Pair this dish with a light, crisp salad—something like arugula with lemon vinaigrette would balance the richness perfectly. And for a drink? A glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is an excellent choice. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling citrus mocktail (find great recipes at this site).
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
As a busy mom, I know how important it is to find recipes that check all the boxes: flavorful, easy to make, and adaptable for the whole family. This Mushroom Penne with Walnut Pesto delivers on all fronts. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is packed with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
For more recipes that bring a little extra joy to your kitchen, visit Momy’s Secret Recipes. I’ve got plenty of ideas to keep your meal plans fresh, exciting, and always delicious.