Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin

If you are craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin is your go-to recipe. Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce, mingling with savory Italian sausage and earthy mushrooms, all baked to golden perfection. This dish is irresistibly satisfying and will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients & Why Each One Matters

• Pasta (penne or rigatoni) – 12 oz: The short, ridged shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Italian sausage – 1 lb: Adds bold, savory depth and satisfying protein that anchors the dish.
• Mushrooms – 8 oz: Bring earthy richness and balance the creaminess with natural umami.
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the sausage and mushrooms, enhancing the overall richness.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth and enhances the savory notes of the sausage and mushrooms.
• Heavy cream – 1 cup: Creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – 1 cup: Infuses the gratin with nutty, salty flavor and helps create a golden crust when baked.
• Shredded mozzarella – 1 cup: Melts perfectly to add gooey, cheesy goodness on top.
• Salt & pepper – to taste: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the natural taste of ingredients.
• Fresh parsley – for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness to finish the dish beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté sausage and mushrooms: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove sausage from casing, crumble into the pan, and cook until browned. Add mushrooms and garlic, cooking until mushrooms are tender and aromatic.
4. Prepare the creamy sauce: Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sausage-mushroom cream sauce.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
7. Bake to perfection: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pasta Gratin

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer flavor and better melting properties.
• Do not overcook the pasta initially; it will continue to cook in the oven and remain perfectly al dente.
• Optional: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat that complements the sausage.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a small dollop of cream cheese into the sauce before combining with pasta.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the richness of the gratin perfectly. Serve family-style straight from the baking dish for a comforting, hearty meal.

Why This Recipe is Loved

Every element in this Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin comes together to create a balance of textures and flavors: creamy, cheesy, savory, and slightly earthy. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. Leftovers reheat well, making it practical as well as indulgent.

Conclusion

With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta gratin is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of Italian sausage, mushrooms, and perfectly baked cheese elevates a classic comfort food into a restaurant-worthy dish. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is an irresistible choice that will leave everyone asking for seconds.