Looking to create a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love? Dive into the world of our Easy Mushroom Pasta Bake. This hearty dish combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the creaminess of a decadent sauce, all baked to perfection for a satisfyingly cozy dinner. Let’s get cooking!
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz. penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 16 oz. mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, portobello, and shiitake), sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are browned and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Season the mushroom mixture with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
7. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne pasta. Top with half of the mushroom mixture.
8. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the mushrooms.
9. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
10. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, mushrooms, cheeses, and marinara sauce.
11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, our Easy Mushroom Pasta Bake is a fantastic meal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. The combination of savory mushrooms, gooey cheeses, and tangy marinara sauce creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will have your taste buds dancing. Enjoy this delicious pasta bake on its own or accompanied by a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite wine for a complete and satisfying dinner. Perfect for gatherings with loved ones or as a cozy meal enjoyed in the comfort of your home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
