This was my first time trying this type of dish, and it was incredibly delicious.
This Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin is the perfect comfort food. It combines tender pasta with flavorful Italian sausage in a creamy, rich sauce filled with earthy mushrooms. Finished with a generous topping of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s baked until beautifully golden. This filling, one-dish meal is ideal for a cozy and satisfying family dinner.
Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin
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 cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese – 1 cup
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 cup
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh parsley, chopped – ¼ cup
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until nicely browned. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until soft. Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Mix in the Parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Return the cooked pasta and sausage to the skillet and stir until evenly combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. Let it rest briefly before serving, then garnish with fresh parsley.
