About This Recipe
A comforting and delicious oven-baked pasta gratin with Italian sausage, mushrooms, and a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 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
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Kitchen Tools
Instructions
Chef's Tips
Here are some tips from a professional chef:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final dish will taste.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the gratin. Cook it al dente.
- Let the gratin rest before serving: This allows the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Using too much pasta: This can make the gratin dry and heavy.
- Not seasoning the sauce properly: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Overbaking the gratin: This can result in a dry and burnt topping.
Variations
Here are some variations you can try:
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Different Cheeses: Try using provolone, fontina, or Gruyère cheese instead of mozzarella.
- Breadcrumb Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and melted butter, and sprinkle over the top before baking for a crunchy topping.
Storage & Freezing
Store leftover pasta gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
You can also freeze the pasta gratin for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, savory sausage, and melted cheese topping, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like ziti, shells, or rotini. Just make sure to cook it al dente.
Yes, you can assemble the pasta gratin ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving.
Yes, you can freeze the pasta gratin for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or Gruyère.