Leek Mushroom Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)

A smooth pasta with mushrooms, caramelized leeks, and melted Gruyere cheese in a tasty sauce.

# Ingredients List:

→ Pasta

01 - 340 g linguine or fettuccine

→ Vegetables

02 - 3 garlic cloves, chopped
03 - 225 g cremini mushrooms, cut into slices
04 - 60 g fresh parsley, chopped (you can skip this)
05 - 2 medium leeks, sliced thin (just the white and pale green parts)

→ Liquids

06 - 120 ml heavy cream
07 - 30 ml olive oil
08 - 120 ml dry white broth or veggie stock

→ Dairy

09 - 100 g shredded Gruyere cheese

→ Seasonings

10 - Salt as needed
11 - A pinch of freshly ground black pepper (about 1/4 tsp)

# Detailed Cooking Steps:

01 - Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top if you want and serve right away.
02 - Add the cooked pasta into the pan with the sauce. Pour in reserved pasta water bit by bit until it’s just right.
03 - Slowly add the shredded Gruyere and stir until it’s all melted and smooth. Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking.
04 - Turn the heat down, pour in the cream, and let it bubble gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens a bit.
05 - Pour in the white broth and scrape the pan bottom to lift all those tasty bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
06 - Add the garlic to the pan and stir it around for about a minute until you can smell it.
07 - Put the sliced mushrooms in the pan and cook for 5 to 7 minutes till they’re soft and have a light brown color.
08 - Heat olive oil on medium in a big pan. Toss in the leeks and cook them for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring now and then until they’re soft and golden.
09 - Follow the pasta package directions and cook till it’s firm to bite. Before draining, save about 120 ml of the pasta water.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - If you want something lighter, swap cream for half-and-half. Gruyere can be swapped for Parmesan or Fontina. Throw in some red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.