Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin 🍝 | A Comforting Italian-Inspired Bake You’ll Love

By Chef Gordon Ramsay & Chef Ina Garten | FreshTonerHungar Culinary Team

There’s something irresistible about the aroma of bubbling cheese, savory sausage, and tender pasta coming together in a golden-baked gratin. This Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin is comfort food at its finest — rich, hearty, and perfect for any night of the week. 🍄🧀

When I tried this dish for the first time, I was absolutely amazed — creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a fan of one-pan meals, this gratin brings a restaurant-quality experience straight to your home kitchen.

“A good gratin is all about layering flavor — from the browned sausage to the silky sauce and the crisp baked cheese,” says Chef Gordon Ramsay. “This recipe nails that balance.”

Why You’ll Love This Sausage & Mushroom Pasta Gratin

This recipe is a twist on the French-style gratin, infused with the robust flavors of Italian sausage and earthy mushrooms. It’s creamy yet balanced, making it ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. 🍽️

• ✅ Easy one-dish meal — cook, bake, and serve from the same pan!
• ✅ Rich and satisfying — creamy sauce, melted cheese, and hearty sausage.
• ✅ Perfect for leftovers — reheats beautifully without losing texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

For the Pasta Gratin

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 12 oz (340g) Italian sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (for extra crisp topping)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions 👩‍🍳

Step 1: Prep & Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside — don’t overcook it, since it’ll finish baking in the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage & Vegetables

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add the garlic and mushrooms, stirring until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown. 🍄

Chef Ina Garten suggests: “Let your mushrooms brown properly — don’t crowd the pan. It builds that deep, savory flavor essential for a gratin.”

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should coat the back of your spoon — creamy, not runny.

Step 4: Combine & Assemble

Return the browned sausage and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated with sauce. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish (or keep it in your oven-safe pan if using one).

Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and a dusting of Parmesan for that classic gratin crust. 🧀

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve warm with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. 🌿

Chef’s Tips & Variations 🍳

• Use spicy sausage for extra kick — great with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes!
• Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly.
• Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and flour-free sausage.

Chef Gordon Ramsay notes: “A gratin doesn’t have to be heavy — it just needs balance. The mushrooms and herbs bring earthy depth that keeps it sophisticated.”

Health & Nutrition Tips 🥗

• Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins and antioxidants — they boost immune health.
• Italian sausage provides protein but can be high in sodium — choose lean or chicken sausage for a healthier twist.
• Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats and enhances flavor.
• Portion control: This gratin is rich, so pair it with a salad to balance the meal.

Nutrition Facts Table 📊

Storage & Reheating Tips 🧊

• Refrigerate: Cool completely, then cover tightly. Store for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap portions in foil or airtight containers. Freeze up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. Add a splash of cream if it looks dry.

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

• Pair with Simple Caesar Salad for freshness and crunch.
• Serve alongside Homemade Garlic Bread for a complete Italian meal.
• Finish dinner with Classic Tiramisu for an indulgent Italian finale.

Expert Chef Commentary 👨‍🍳

• Chef Gordon Ramsay: “A great gratin isn’t about excess — it’s about balance and golden texture. Let it rest before serving so the sauce thickens perfectly.”
• Chef Ina Garten: “Use good Parmesan and fresh herbs — they elevate simple ingredients into something truly special.”
• Chef Ree Drummond: “This dish is perfect for family dinners — it’s cozy, hearty, and makes everyone happy.”

FAQs About Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin 🍝

1. Can I use other meats?
   Yes! Try ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even crumbled bacon for variety.
2. Can I make this ahead?
   Absolutely. Assemble the gratin up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake before serving.
3. What kind of mushrooms work best?
   Cremini or baby bella mushrooms add the most flavor, but white mushrooms work fine too.
4. Can I use milk instead of cream?
   Yes, though it’ll be lighter — simmer longer to thicken the sauce.
5. Can I add wine to the sauce?
   Definitely! A splash of dry white wine adds depth and sophistication.
6. How do I make it spicier?
   Use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
7. What’s the best cheese for gratin?
   Mozzarella for melt, Parmesan for flavor, and a touch of Gruyère for richness if available.
8. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Omit sausage and use extra mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
9. How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?
   Avoid boiling cream — simmer gently and add cheese off the heat.
10. Where can I find more baked pasta recipes?
    Check out this collection of baked pasta dishes for more inspiration.

Related Recipes You’ll Love ❤️

• Classic Beef Lasagna with Homemade Meat Sauce
• Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake
• Creamy Mushroom Risotto Recipe

Final Thoughts 🍄💛

This Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin is the definition of hearty comfort. From the golden cheese crust to the creamy sauce and savory sausage, every bite is pure satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating guests, it’s a dish that always delivers.

“It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel at home the moment you take that first bite,” says Chef Ina Garten. And she’s absolutely right — simple ingredients, slow-simmered love, and a golden finish that’s nothing short of perfection.

Discover more family-friendly, comfort-packed meals at FreshTonerHungar.com — your kitchen companion for timeless flavors and modern cooking inspiration.