Caramelized Leek Mushroom Gruyere (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 340 g fettuccine or linguine

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
03 - 225 g cremini mushrooms, sliced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 15 g fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

→ Sauce

06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 120 ml dry white cooking broth or vegetable stock
08 - 120 ml heavy cream
09 - 120 g Gruyere cheese, shredded
10 - 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 - Salt, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Boil a large pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 120 ml pasta water before draining.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden.
03 - Add cremini mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
04 - Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Pour in the white broth and deglaze the pan, scraping browned bits from the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.
06 - Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
07 - Gradually add shredded Gruyere, stirring until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
08 - Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
09 - Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For a deeper flavor, caramelize the leeks thoroughly before adding mushrooms.