Creamy Baked Italian Sausage Pasta with Mushrooms: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This oven-baked Italian sausage pasta is the perfect blend of savory sausage, rich creamy sauce, tender pasta, and melty cheese. With earthy mushrooms and aromatic herbs, this hearty casserole is a crowd-pleasing, weeknight-friendly recipe that doubles as a show-stopping dish for gatherings.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

•  One-pan baked pasta perfection

•  Packed with flavor from Italian sausage and mushrooms

•  Creamy, cheesy, and comforting

•  Freezer and meal prep friendly

 Ingredients for Baked Sausage Pasta

Use these simple pantry and fridge staples to build a truly rich and satisfying pasta bake:

• 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended for best texture)

• 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced (mild or spicy, your choice)

• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

 Step-by-Step Instructions

 Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to go when your pasta is assembled.

 Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

 Step 3: Brown the Sausage

In a large oven-safe skillet or regular skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage and set aside.

 Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until tender and browned (about 5–6 minutes).

 Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well, and let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.

 Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Herbs

Add the grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

 Step 7: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and browned sausage back into the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.

 Step 8: Transfer to Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the pasta mixture into it. Spread evenly with a spatula.

 Step 9: Add Mozzarella Topping

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

 Step 10: Bake Until Golden

Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling with golden brown edges.

 Step 11: Cool and Garnish

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

 Variations and Tips

• Lighten it up: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.

• Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

• Vegetarian version: Skip the sausage and double the mushrooms, or add spinach, kale, or roasted veggies.

• Cheese swap: Try Gruyere, cheddar, or fontina for different cheesy flavor notes.

• Make it ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze unbaked or baked pasta for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until heated through.

 Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy baked pasta with:

• A crisp green salad (with vinaigrette or Caesar dressing)

• Garlic bread or a fresh baguette

• A light red wine like Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio

enjoy!