There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a cheesy, baked pasta dish, especially when it’s brimming with savory sausage, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together. This Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin takes weeknight dinners to the next level with its bubbling golden top, hearty flavors, and irresistible aroma. Perfect for cozy family meals or potluck gatherings, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- Pasta (penne or rigatoni): 12 ounces
- Italian sausage, sliced: 1 pound
- Mushrooms, sliced: 8 ounces
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Small onion, diced: 1
- Garlic, minced: 3 cloves
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Chicken broth: 1 cupChicken
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1 cup
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Chopped fresh parsley: ¼ cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep & Cook Pasta
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Step 2: Cook Sausage & Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are tender.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine & Bake
Return the sausage to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Grains & Pasta
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Swap the protein: Try chicken sausage or even ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Make it veggie-packed: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Make ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.Chicken
Serving Suggestions
This pasta gratin pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. For a complete Italian-inspired dinner, serve alongside roasted vegetables and a glass of red wine.