One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Orecchiette with Peas

One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Orecchiette Pasta with peas is a cozy, protein-rich vegetarian dinner ready in 30 minutes, and made with no cream. You’ll never guess the secret ingredient that makes this dish extra creamy and packed with protein.

Nut Free, Soy Free, Egg Free, Gluten free option

If cozy, creamy pasta is your comfort food love language—but washing multiple pots is not—this one-pot creamy mushroom orecchiette with peas is for you. It’s rich and satisfying without heavy cream, comes together in about 30 minutes, and uses simple pantry ingredients.

As a dietitian, I love recipes like this because they’re realistic: nourishing, comforting, and flexible. This pasta gets its creaminess from a blend of cottage cheese and Parmesan (stay with me!), while mushrooms and peas add fiber, flavor, and texture.

You’ll Love this One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Orecchiette with Peas because…

• One pot = fewer dishes
• Creamy without heavy cream
• High protein vegetarian meal
• Cozy, weeknight-friendly comfort food
• Easy to customize based on what you have

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make this One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Orecchiette with Peas

I know you may think “cottage cheese in pasta?!?” but stay with me here!!!

1. Butter adds richness and a depth of flavor. You can swap olive oil for a lighter flavor.
2. Mushrooms make this vegetarian meal super satisfying thanks to their meatiness. Plus, their umami qualities add a savoriness and depth of flavor.
3. Smoked paprika and mushrooms are a match made in heaven! It adds subtle warmth and depth.
4. Shallots are a mild aromatic base. You can always swap in your favorite onion too.
5. Garlic … because all good pasta starts with garlic.
6. Dry orecchiette pasta is the perfect shape because it holds onto the sauce beautifully. Of course you can swap in another pasta, but I love that orecchiette is fairly quick-cooking.
7. Dried thyme adds another layer of flavor to the dish that is a bit more unexpected in pasta. But trust me, it really elevates the end result.
8. Dried oregano is such a classic flavor in any pasta dish.
9. Bone broth is a secret powerhouse when making pasta. Not only does bone broth add flavor, but it contributes a sizable protein boost. If you’re 100% plant-based or follow a vegetarian diet,
10. Frozen peas are sweet, tender, and easy, but add fiber, vitamins and minerals.
11. 2% cottage cheese is the secret to creaminess without cream. While it may first appear lumpy (*cringing typing this*), it mixes in beautifully as it continues to cook. If you immediately want a creamier texture you could also blend the cottage cheese before adding it to the dish.
12. Grated Parmesan cheese is salty, savory, and melty, adding a unique pungent flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need to Make This Recipe:

• Large skillet with lid
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp chef’s knife

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Orecchiette

First, sauté the mushrooms, shallots and garlic.

Heat the butter or olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and their moisture has cooked off. Sprinkle with smoked paprika.

Then, add the shallot (or onion) and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook just until fragrant.

Next, add in the pasta and broth.

Stir in the dry orecchiette, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Stir for 1 minute to lightly toast before pouring in the bone broth and bring to a gentle boil.

Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Finish with peas and creaminess

Mix in the frozen peas, cottage cheese, and parmesan cheese.

Now you’ll cover the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes and the texture is creamy. Enjoy warm!

Tips for Extra Creaminess (No Heavy Cream)

• Blend the cottage cheese before adding if you prefer a completely smooth sauce
• Stir in the cheese off heat to prevent curdling

Nutrition Notes from a Dietitian

Is this a balanced meal?

This dish is a great example of gentle nutrition—comforting, satisfying, and balanced.

• Protein: Cottage cheese, Parmesan, peas, and bone broth contribute protein
• Fiber: Mushrooms, peas, and pasta help support fullness and digestion
• Fats: Olive oil or butter plus cheese provide satiety and flavor

It’s not about making pasta “healthier” by taking things away—it’s about adding what helps you feel nourished and satisfied.

Easy Variations & Additions

• Add protein: Stir in white beans, rotisserie chicken, or crispy tofu
• Make it vegan: Use olive oil, vegetable broth, and dairy-free cottage cheese + Parmesan alternatives
• Gluten-free: Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta (you may need extra broth)
• Extra veggies: Spinach, kale, or roasted broccoli work well here

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes—small shapes like shells, rotini, or farfalle work best.

Does this taste like cottage cheese?
No. Once warmed and mixed with Parmesan, it melts into a mild, creamy sauce. Even my cheese-hating husband thought this one was delicious!

Can I use vegetable broth instead of bone broth?
Absolutely. The flavor will still be delicious, but it will have less protein overall.

Other Pasta Dishes You’ll Love:

• Bruschetta Pasta Salad
• Lemon Basil Shrimp Spaghetti
• Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Cozy, Creamy, and Weeknight-Friendly

This one-pot creamy mushroom orecchiette is proof that comfort food can be simple, satisfying, and nourishing—no heavy cream or complicated steps required.

If you make it, I’d love to see it! Tag @chelseyamernutrition so I can cheer you on in the kitchen 🤍

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