Pasta Alfredo (White Sauce)

Creamy Mushroom & Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

This Pasta Alfredo (White Sauce) takes the beloved creamy pasta dish and elevates it with the addition of fresh mushrooms and vibrant broccoli. The sauce is a velvety blend, often featuring butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, providing a rich base that beautifully coats the pasta. The inclusion of vegetables adds not only flavor and texture but also a touch of freshness and balance to the richness. Infused with Italian herbs, every forkful is a warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying experience.

Yields: 2-3 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20-25 minutes

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta:
  • 200g (about 7 oz) pasta of your choice (fettuccine, tagliatelle, penne, or spirals work well)
  • Salt for pasta water
• For the White Sauce & Vegetables:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup fresh mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, bite-sized
  • 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or shallots (optional, for extra flavor depth)
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream (or a mix of heavy cream and milk for a lighter sauce)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian mixed herbs (e.g., oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary blend)
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)