The scent of sautéed garlic and mushrooms swirling in the air has an enchanting way of shifting my mood. Picture me in a cozy kitchen, eager to create something both comforting and exciting. That’s when I discovered the magic of Miso Pasta—a dish that seamlessly blends earthy flavors with a creamy twist. It struck me as the perfect remedy to a long day, offering a departure from mundane quick meals and fast food chains.
In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this elegant pasta dish that impresses not only the palate but also the senses. The umami-rich miso paired with perfectly cooked pasta and savory mushrooms makes for a unique addition to your weeknight repertoire. Plus, it’s so simple that even on the busiest of evenings, you can take a culinary detour into the delightful realm of homemade goodness. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and transform a few humble ingredients into something extraordinary!
Why love Miso Pasta for dinner?
Creamy, Cozy Comfort: The luscious sauce clings perfectly to each strand of pasta, making for a delightful bite.
Quick & Easy: With just 20 minutes of total time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Umami Explosion: Miso adds a rich depth of flavor that elevates traditional pasta to new heights.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for endless variations.
Healthy & Satisfying: Packed with essential nutrients and hearty enough to satisfy your cravings, this recipe is sure to become a staple.
For more delicious pasta ideas, check out our easy weeknight pasta recipes.
Miso Pasta Ingredients
Experience the depth of flavor with these simple ingredients!
For the Sauce
- Miso paste – 2 tablespoons of this umami-packed ingredient is the star of your creamy miso pasta.
- Garlic cloves – 2 diced cloves bring aromatic warmth and flavor to your dish.
- Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons for sautéing and adding richness.
For the Pasta
- Long pasta – 6 oz / 170 g of your choice, cooked to al dente for the best texture.
- Salt and black pepper – To taste, enhancing all the wonderful flavors in your miso pasta.
For the Topping
- Cremini mushrooms – 7 oz / 200 g, sliced to add a savory, earthy layer that complements the pasta perfectly.
- Parmesan cheese – 1 oz / 30 g finely grated for a finishing touch and extra creaminess.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to making a deliciously creamy miso pasta that will surely impress!
How to Make Miso Pasta
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Sauté Garlic: In a large saucepan, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over low heat and sauté the diced garlic until it’s lightly golden, releasing its delicious aroma.
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Cook Mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini mushrooms along with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Raise the heat to medium and sauté until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
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Season: Sprinkle a small pinch of salt and black pepper over the mushrooms, stirring to combine and enhance their natural flavors.
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Boil Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the long pasta for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions indicate. Set aside a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
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Mix Miso Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste with a ladle of the reserved pasta cooking water until smooth and creamy, making sure there are no clumps.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and add it directly to the pan with the sautéed mushrooms. Pour in the miso sauce and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top. Stir well for a few minutes until the cheese has melted and everything is evenly combined.
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Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creamy consistency, then serve your luscious miso pasta.
Optional: Garnish with additional parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Miso Pasta preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can sauté the garlic and mushrooms up to 3 days in advance, allowing their flavors to meld while stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The miso sauce can also be whisked together and refrigerated overnight to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sautéed mixture, cook the pasta according to package instructions, and then combine everything with the reserved pasta water and parmesan. This way, your flavorful Miso Pasta will still be just as delicious, ready for you in a matter of minutes!
Miso Pasta Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to indulge your creativity and customize this dish to fit your taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this delightful dish without the gluten discomfort.
- Vegan Delight: Substitute miso and parmesan with a plant-based alternative to create an entirely vegan-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Mushroom Medley: Combine cremini with shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a richer, deeper mushroom taste that elevates your miso pasta.
- Heat it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Creamy Dream: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of vegan cream cheese for an ultra-creamy finish that takes your pasta to the next level.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end to brighten up the flavors and give your dish that fresh and zesty aroma.
- Protein Boost: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein that makes this meal even more satisfying and filling.
- Nutty Twist: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top adds delightful crunch and complements the umami-rich flavors beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Miso Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftover Miso Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to revive the creaminess.
Freezer: You can freeze Miso Pasta for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To warm the Miso Pasta, gently heat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a bit of reserved pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.
What to Serve with Miso Pasta?
Looking to elevate your Miso Pasta experience? Here are some delicious pairings to create a memorable meal.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery slices complement the creamy pasta and add a satisfying crunch to your dinner experience.
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Simple Arugula Salad: A light salad with peppery arugula and a zesty lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh bite, balancing the richness of the pasta.
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Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled zucchini and bell peppers bring a delightful texture and a burst of color, making your plate even more inviting.
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Sautéed Greens: Tender sautéed spinach or kale tossed with garlic offers a nutritious side that complements the umami flavors of the miso.
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Roasted Chicken Thighs: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken thighs add hearty protein, making it a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.
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Chilled Sake: This smooth, chilled rice wine enhances the meal with its subtle sweetness and refreshing flavor, making for a wonderful dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse serves as a decadent finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory main dish.
Enhancing your Miso Pasta with these delightful accompaniments makes for a cozy, well-rounded dinner that your taste buds will thank you for!
Helpful Tricks for Miso Pasta
- Miso Mastery: Mix miso with hot pasta water until smooth before adding it to your pasta to avoid clumping in your miso pasta.
- Perfect Pasta: Always cook your pasta just shy of fully done; it will continue to cook when you mix it with the sauce, ensuring al dente texture.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps create a creamy sauce while enhancing the flavor of your miso pasta.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other veggies like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrients and color without losing the essence of the dish.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses if you want to switch things up; a bit of goat cheese can add a tangy twist to your miso pasta.
Miso Pasta Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting miso paste?
When choosing miso paste, look for a brand that has a rich, savory aroma. There are various types available, like white, yellow, and red miso, each with different flavor profiles. I personally love using white miso for its sweetness, especially in pasta dishes like Miso Pasta. It’s best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for months.
How long can I store leftover Miso Pasta?
Leftover Miso Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat it on the stovetop. I recommend adding a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the sauce and restore its creaminess.
Can I freeze Miso Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze Miso Pasta for up to 2 months. To do so, let it cool completely and then pack it into a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave a little room for expansion. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently, adding a bit of reserved pasta water as needed to get that creamy texture back.
What if my Miso Pasta turns out too thick?
If your Miso Pasta is too thick after combining the ingredients, don’t worry! Just add a little reserved pasta cooking water, one tablespoon at a time while stirring, until you’ve reached your desired creamy consistency. This not only helps thin out the sauce but also enhances the flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for this Miso Pasta?
Yes! If you’re concerned about allergens, be aware that miso paste often contains soy, which can trigger allergies. Also, the parmesan cheese can be omitted for a vegan version, and you can substitute nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. If you have pets, remember to keep any leftovers out of their reach, particularly because ingredients like garlic can be harmful to dogs.
What kind of pasta works best for Miso Pasta?
While I used long pasta in the recipe, like spaghetti or linguine, you can use whatever type you enjoy! Short pastas like penne or fusilli can soak up the creamy miso sauce beautifully as well. Just ensure that the cooking time fits the pasta type you choose. Happy cooking!
Creamy Miso Pasta Perfect for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepan, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over low heat and sauté the diced garlic until it's lightly golden.
- Add the sliced cremini mushrooms along with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté until browned.
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the mushrooms, stirring to combine.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the long pasta for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions indicate.
- In a small bowl, whisk miso paste with a ladle of reserved pasta cooking water until smooth.
- Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and add it to the pan with the sautéed mushrooms. Pour in the miso sauce and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.