There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of pasta to brighten any day, and this Miso Butter Pasta with Shiitake Mushrooms and Scallions Recipe is my absolute go-to when I want something both simple and spectacular. The rich, creamy miso butter sauce clings perfectly to every strand of spaghetti, while the earthy shiitake mushrooms and bright, crisp scallions add layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more. It’s an elegant fusion dish that comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it a true winner whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface with a red tile pattern beneath. On the left is a yellow square plate with round and sliced brown mushrooms. Below it, a wooden cutting board holds three cloves of garlic and a bunch of dry spaghetti noodles laid out straight. Next to the board, a wooden bowl is filled with sliced green onions. Surrounding these items are small round white bowls holding different ingredients: dark soy sauce, sesame seeds, and butter cut into cubes. There is also a small bowl containing a creamy beige paste and another bowl with bright red chili sauce with visible chunks. A beige cloth is casually placed on the lower right corner of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What’s beautiful about this recipe is how just a few accessible ingredients combine to create such a deeply satisfying dish. Each element plays a vital role, from the buttery smoothness to the umami-packed mushrooms and the fresh zing of scallions on top.

10 oz spaghetti: Choose your favorite brand; spaghetti holds the sauce wonderfully without overpowering the flavors.
3 tbsp grass-fed unsalted butter: This provides a rich, creamy base—substitute with vegan butter if you prefer a dairy-free version.
2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a fragrant warmth that makes the sauce unforgettable.
2 tbsp white miso paste: This fermented delight adds a subtle savory depth and a touch of sweetness.
½ cup reserved pasta water: The magic ingredient that helps emulsify the sauce and keeps it silky smooth.
1-2 tsp low-sodium soy sauce: For gentle saltiness and an added layer of umami.
1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms: Earthy, meaty, and tender when sautéed, they bring texture and a rich flavor boost.
2 scallions, thinly sliced: The fresh, mild onion flavor brightens the finished dish beautifully.
1 tsp sesame seeds: Tossed on top for a toasty crunch and nutty aroma.
Chili oil crunch: Optional but highly recommended for a spicy kick and an irresistible textural contrast.

How to Make Miso Butter Pasta with Shiitake Mushrooms and Scallions Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until just al dente—that perfect bite that holds up well with the sauce. Before draining, reserve about one cup of that starchy pasta water; it’s a secret ingredient that turns the sauce creamy and cohesive.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Build the Sauce

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for one to two minutes until it fills your kitchen with a lovely aroma. Next, whisk in the white miso paste along with a quarter cup of your reserved pasta water. Keep whisking until the miso melts and melds into a smooth, velvety sauce that promises big flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Shiitake Mushrooms

Give those shiitake mushrooms a quick rinse, pat dry, then toss them into the pan. Sauté for two to three minutes until they soften and soak up the miso butter sauce, releasing their natural earthiness that elevates the entire dish.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the mushrooms and sauce. Toss everything together, slowly adding more reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a luscious coating on every strand. Taste the pasta and finish by seasoning with one to two teaspoons of low-sodium soy sauce—it’s the final umami boost that balances all the flavors perfectly.

How to Serve Miso Butter Pasta with Shiitake Mushrooms and Scallions Recipe

A black cast iron pan filled with a yellow-green creamy mixture with small round grains. On top, there is a layer of sliced brown mushrooms scattered unevenly. The pan is placed on a beige cloth on a white marbled surface. Around the pan, there are whole mushrooms, a wooden spatula, a wooden bowl with green leaves, and two white plates with sauces and seeds. The scene has warm lighting with a cozy feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Topping this pasta with fresh scallions sliced thinly adds an immediate pop of color and crisp, mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness. Sprinkle a teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch, and if you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle chili oil crunch for an addictive spicy crunch that wakes up your palate and makes every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

This dish is so rich and flavorful it can easily stand alone, but if you want to round out your meal, consider a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed greens like bok choy or spinach. A crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the buttery pasta and keep the meal feeling balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with the mushrooms artfully arranged on top. Add extra scallions and sesame seeds tableside for guests to customize. For a fun twist, you can even stuff this mixture inside roasted bell peppers or use it as a filling for savory crepes, turning this comforting Miso Butter Pasta with Shiitake Mushrooms and Scallions Recipe into a versatile crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover miso butter pasta holds up nicely in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Because of the simple ingredients and pasta water in the sauce, it retains its creaminess better than many other creamy pasta dishes.

Freezing

While I recommend eating this dish fresh for fullest flavor and texture, you can freeze leftovers. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that some pasta sauces can separate slightly after freezing, so gentle reheating with a splash of water helps restore that luscious creaminess.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little extra pasta water or butter to bring the sauce back to life and toss frequently to avoid sticking or drying out. Finish with fresh scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to revive the dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of mushroom in this recipe?

Absolutely! While shiitake mushrooms bring a distinctive earthiness, cremini or button mushrooms will also work nicely. Just adjust the cooking time so they’re tender and flavorful.

Is there a substitute for white miso paste?

You can use yellow or red miso paste if white isn’t available, but keep in mind they have stronger, more robust flavors. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste so the sauce isn’t overpowering.

What’s the best way to make this recipe vegan?

Simply swap out the grass-fed butter for a high-quality vegan butter or margarine, and use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep it gluten-free. The creamy texture and umami punch will still shine through beautifully.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or noodles in place of regular pasta. Just be sure to check that your miso paste and soy sauce are gluten-free too, to keep everything safe.

How spicy is the chili oil crunch topping?

Chili oil crunch varies by brand but generally adds a mild to moderate spicy crunch. It’s optional, so you can leave it off or add just a touch if you’re sensitive to heat. It’s a fantastic way to add texture and flavor dimension.

Final Thoughts

This Miso Butter Pasta with Shiitake Mushrooms and Scallions Recipe is one of those dishes that makes you smile with every forkful—comforting, vibrant, and surprisingly easy to whip up on any busy day. I encourage you to give it a try and make it your own; you might just find it becoming your new weeknight favorite, perfect for sharing with people you love or savoring all to yourself.

Miso Butter Pasta with Shiitake Mushrooms and Scallions Recipe