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An elegant mushroom fettuccine dish in a dark ceramic bowl

Creamy Mushroom and Tarragon Fettuccine with Goat Cheese Twist

L. L. Sofia
This creamy fettuccine dish combines the earthy richness of mushrooms, the fragrant notes of tarragon, and the tangy smoothness of goat cheese for an indulgent, gourmet meal that's easy to prepare.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Quick & Easy Dinners
Cuisine Italian-Inspired
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

Precisely Ingredients

  • Fettuccine: 12 oz 340 g
  • Butter: 2 tbsp
  • Olive oil: 2 tbsp divided
  • Mushrooms: 8 oz 225 g, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
  • Salt: 1 tsp divided
  • Black pepper: ½ tsp freshly ground
  • Dried tarragon: 1 tsp or 2 tsp fresh, chopped
  • Goat cheese: 4 oz 115 g, softened
  • Grated Parmesan: ½ cup plus extra for garnish
  • Milk: ¾ cup
  • Chives: 2 tbsp finely chopped
  • Pasta cooking water: Reserved 1½ cups

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Clean and slice the mushrooms, and set aside.

Cooking Steps

  • Cook the Pasta: Add fettuccine to boiling water and cook until al dente (about 10–12 minutes). Reserve 1½ cups of the pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Mushrooms:

  • In a large skillet, heat butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the mushrooms, ½ teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and dried tarragon.
  • Sauté for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden and any released liquid evaporates.

Prepare the Goat Cheese Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, combine goat cheese, grated Parmesan, milk, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Whisk until smooth.
  • Gradually mix in 1 cup of the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.

Combine the Dish:

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the mushrooms.
  • Pour in the goat cheese sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
  • Stir in the remaining olive oil, fresh tarragon (if using), and chopped chives.
  • If the pasta seems dry, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.

Serve:

  • Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For an added twist, substitute fresh basil for tarragon or mix both herbs.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light red like Dolcetto.