Introduction

Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin is the ultimate comfort food dish that combines hearty sausage, earthy mushrooms, tender pasta, and a rich creamy sauce. Topped with golden melted cheese and baked until bubbly, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 300g (10 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)
• 300g (10 oz) sausage meat (casings removed if using links)
• 250g (9 oz) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 500ml (2 cups) milk (warm)
• 100ml (½ cup) chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 100g (1 cup) grated mozzarella cheese
• 50g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sausage and mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add sausage meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until soft and fragrant. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Make the sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Slowly whisk in warm milk and broth until smooth. Simmer until thickened.
4. Combine: Add the sausage and mushroom mixture to the sauce. Stir in the drained pasta. Mix well so everything is coated.
5. Assemble the gratin: Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Description

This pasta gratin is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying. The sausage adds a hearty, meaty flavor, while the mushrooms bring an earthy balance. The creamy sauce ties everything together, and the golden cheesy crust on top makes it irresistible. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Tips

• Pasta choice: Short, ridged pasta like rigatoni holds the sauce best.
• Cheese options: Swap mozzarella with Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone for a different flavor.
• Extra veggies: Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added for more color and nutrition.
• Make ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and bake just before serving.
• Crispy topping: Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan for an extra crunchy top layer.

Correction

• Don’t overcook the pasta before baking, or it will turn mushy. Cook just to al dente.
• Make sure to whisk the sauce slowly to avoid lumps.
• If using very salty sausage, adjust seasoning to avoid oversalting the dish.

Enjoy

Serve this Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete and comforting meal. Dig in and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite!