This delicious stuffed mushroom pasta bake brings all the flavors of classic stuffed mushrooms into a creamy, oven-baked dish filled with hearty vegetables and a rich sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

12 ounces dried campanelle or bowtie pasta
1 pound bulk Italian sausage
1 pound mixed fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake, and/or oyster), sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
5 tablespoons butter, divided
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 cups half-and-half
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, divided

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Return pasta to the pot and keep warm.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned (about 8 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender and liquid has evaporated (about 8 minutes).
Stir in soy sauce and cook until absorbed, about 1 minute. Transfer mixture to the pot with pasta.
In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
Add chicken broth, half-and-half, and Dijon mustard. Stir continuously until thickened and bubbly.
Whisk in shredded cheese and spinach until fully combined and cheese is melted.
Add the sauce and sausage to the pasta mixture. Stir to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and mix with panko bread crumbs and 1 tablespoon of parsley. Sprinkle over the pasta mixture.
Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Garnish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley and serve warm.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 368
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 16g

The Inspiration Behind the Recipe

Stuffed mushrooms are a popular appetizer known for their earthy flavors and creamy, cheesy filling. This recipe takes all the best elements of stuffed mushrooms—mushrooms, cheese, garlic, herbs, and a bit of crunch—and integrates them into a main course. By incorporating pasta and a luscious sauce, this dish transforms the classic appetizer into a hearty, one-pan meal that is both indulgent and easy to prepare.

The Role of Mushrooms in the Dish

Mushrooms are the star ingredient of this pasta bake, providing depth and umami to the dish. The use of a variety of mushrooms, such as button, cremini, shiitake, and oyster, enhances the flavor profile, creating a more complex and satisfying bite. Mushrooms absorb the flavors of the seasonings and sauce while maintaining a tender texture, making them the perfect complement to the creamy base of the dish.

Balancing Creaminess and Texture

One of the highlights of this pasta bake is its perfectly balanced texture. The sauce, made from a combination of chicken broth, half-and-half, and melted cheese, creates a velvety consistency that coats the pasta beautifully. Dijon mustard is added to enhance the richness with a subtle tang, preventing the dish from becoming too heavy. Meanwhile, the crispy panko topping introduces a crunchy contrast that elevates each bite.

The Heartiness of Italian Sausage

Italian sausage plays a crucial role in adding bold flavor to this dish. The combination of savory sausage and mushrooms creates a robust, meaty texture that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. The sausage also provides a slight spice that pairs well with the creamy elements, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.

The Nutritional Benefits of Spinach

While this dish is undeniably indulgent, the addition of spinach brings a boost of nutrition. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber. Using frozen spinach makes it easy to incorporate without extra preparation, and its mild flavor blends seamlessly into the creamy sauce. This ensures that the dish is not only delicious but also provides some essential nutrients.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking is the final step that brings all the components together. As the dish bakes, the sauce thickens, the flavors meld, and the panko topping turns golden brown. The result is a visually appealing, bubbly pasta bake with a crunchy top layer and a creamy, flavorful filling underneath. This step also ensures that the cheese melts completely, binding the ingredients together into a cohesive dish.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed Mushroom Pasta Bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette makes an excellent addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a refreshing contrast, a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy and earthy flavors beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This pasta bake is an excellent make-ahead dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. To store leftovers, simply cover and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain the crispy topping and creamy consistency. If microwaving, add a splash of milk or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. There are several ways to customize the dish to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

Vegetarian Option: Omit the Italian sausage and replace it with extra mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Gluten-Free Variation: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickening agent. Gluten-free panko can also be used for the topping.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
Cheese Variations: While the recipe calls for an Italian blend, experimenting with cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Parmesan can add unique flavor dimensions.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

There are many pasta bake recipes, but this one stands out because of its well-balanced combination of flavors and textures. The umami-rich mushrooms, savory sausage, and creamy sauce come together in a way that feels indulgent yet satisfying. The crispy panko topping adds the final touch, making every bite enjoyable. Additionally, the dish is easy to prepare in advance, making it a great option for entertaining or meal planning.

Conclusion

Stuffed Mushroom Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort food, offering a blend of rich, creamy, and savory flavors in every bite. This dish takes the essence of stuffed mushrooms and transforms it into a satisfying, family-friendly meal that is both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta bake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its hearty ingredients, creamy sauce, and golden, crunchy topping, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.

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