Print

Caramelized Leek and Mushroom Gruyere Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 50 reviews

This Caramelized Leek and Mushroom Gruyere Pasta recipe offers a warm, rich, and comforting vegetarian dish perfect for cozy nights. It combines caramelized leeks, sautéed oyster mushrooms, and a creamy Gruyere cheese sauce tossed with fettuccine, finished with optional toasted pine nuts for crunch. The sauce is infused with sherry wine, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs, creating a luxurious, flavorful meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces Fettuccine (or linguine or spaghetti)
  • 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water (for adjusting sauce consistency)

For the Flavor Base

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for cooking)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (or more olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 2 medium Leeks, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (for seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar (for caramelization)

For the Umami Boost

  • 8 ounces Oyster Mushrooms (or cremini/button mushrooms)
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 4 Sage Leaves (or thyme)

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (do not substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar (for balance)
  • 1/4 cup Sherry Wine (or dry white wine)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (optional)

For the Final Touch

  • 1 cup Gruyere Cheese (or Swiss/Emmental cheese)
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Pine Nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large sauté pan, warm olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until the butter melts and begins to bubble, creating a flavorful base for the pasta.
  2. Cook the Leeks: Add the sliced leeks, lightly seasoning with salt and a pinch of sugar. Sauté for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and caramelized. If the pan dries out, add a splash of water to prevent burning.
  3. Add the Wine: Stir in the sherry wine and allow it to reduce completely, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the caramelized leeks from the pan and set aside.
  4. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same pan, add the remaining butter and sauté the oyster mushrooms. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side until browned and tender; season with salt and pepper.
  5. Incorporate the Aromatics: Add minced garlic and chopped sage leaves to the pan; cook for 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Return the caramelized leeks to the pan. Stir in heavy cream, balsamic vinegar, and lemon zest. Simmer together until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  8. Mix It Together: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce along with the reserved pasta water, Gruyere cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss gently to combine and simmer for 2 more minutes to melt the cheese fully into the sauce.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta into bowls and, if desired, top with toasted pine nuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Notes

  • For added flavor, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish before serving.
  • If you want a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream alternative.
  • Reserve enough pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed for a perfect creamy texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of pasta water or cream.
  • Freeze portions for up to 2 months; sauce may separate on thawing but can be restored by stirring after reheating.
  • Be patient while caramelizing leeks to avoid burning; adjust heat as necessary and add water if pan dries out.
  • To intensify flavor, avoid overcrowding the pan while sautéing mushrooms to ensure proper browning.
  • Experiment with mushroom types, herbs, and cheeses for personalized twists on this recipe.

Keywords: caramelized leek pasta, mushroom pasta, gruyere pasta, creamy pasta, vegetarian pasta, comfort food pasta, fettuccine recipe, cozy night meal

Find it online: https://deliciousdishspot.com/caramelized-leek-and-mushroom-gruyere-pasta-recipe/