Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté diced onion until translucent.
Add garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until mushrooms are tender and golden brown.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Simmer the mixture for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Return the cooked pasta and sausage to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated with sauce.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Expert Tips for Success
Cook Pasta Al Dente: The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so don’t overcook it initially.
Use Quality Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and adds richer flavor.
Go for Depth of Flavor: Brown the sausage well and let the mushrooms caramelize for maximum taste.
Add Crunch: Top with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for a crispy topping.
Meal Prep Hack: Assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate. Bake the next day for a quick dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin with these sides for a complete meal:
A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls.
A light soup, like .
Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Variations
Vegetarian Twist: Replace sausage with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Extra Protein: Add shredded chicken or shrimp for a surf-and-turf experience.
Low-Carb Version: Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage and add crushed red pepper flakes.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in foil for best results.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave individual portions.
Pro Tip: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 495
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 880mg
Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin
FAQs – Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the gratin up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Q2: What mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Cremini, baby bella, or white button mushrooms are perfect. For a gourmet touch, try shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
Q3: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes beautifully, either baked or unbaked. Just thaw overnight before reheating.
Q4: How can I make it lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of cream and milk, and reduce the cheese slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin is a delicious, satisfying recipe that blends creamy pasta, savory sausage, and earthy mushrooms under a bubbly, golden cheese topping. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or simply enjoying a cozy night at home.
Add this dish to your dinner rotation and watch it become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, you’ll end up with a meal that delivers comfort in every bite.
