Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, hearty pasta bake for a cozy evening at home. And when you combine the savory flavors of leeks and mushrooms, you’re in for a treat that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. Our Leek Mushroom Pasta Bake recipe is a delightful blend of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and earthy vegetables baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dish that will soon become a family favorite.
Leek Mushroom Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 leeks, thinly sliced
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and mushrooms and sauté until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is coated evenly with the creamy sauce.
7. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, reserving the other half for topping the pasta bake.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Once out of the oven, let the Leek Mushroom Pasta Bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your Leek Mushroom Pasta Bake warm with a side salad or crusty bread for a delicious, comforting meal that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends when you want a satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce, combined with the earthy flavors of leeks and mushrooms, creates a delightful harmony that makes this pasta bake a standout dish. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful recipe – it’s guaranteed to become a household favorite!
