Sunday Creamy Mushroom Pasta Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Mushroom Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (penne or fusilli); 250g mushrooms, sliced; 200ml heavy cream; 150g grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I absolutely adore making this Sunday Creamy Mushroom Pasta Bake for my family. It’s become a cherished tradition in our home, a dish that brings comfort and warmth to our dinner table. The creamy sauce, rich with mushrooms and cheese, envelops the pasta perfectly, making each bite a delight. I love how easy it is to whip up, yet it feels indulgent enough to impress. This dish is perfect for lazy Sundays when we want to relax and share a hearty meal together.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:43:35.362Z

When I first made this creamy pasta bake, I had some mushrooms in the fridge that needed using up, and I knew I had to create something special. The combination of sautéed mushrooms and a velvety cream sauce was a match made in culinary heaven. I layered the ingredients thoughtfully, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor, and topped it off with a sprinkle of cheese for that golden finish.

This dish is versatile as well; I often add spinach or even some leftover chicken if I have it. The method allows for flexibility, and I love how the flavors meld together beautifully as it bakes. It’s a dish I can confidently serve to guests or on cozy family nights!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich creamy sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully
Earthy flavor from perfectly sautéed mushrooms
Comforting and filling, perfect for family gatherings

      

Choosing the Right Pasta

The type of pasta you choose for the Sunday Creamy Mushroom Pasta Bake can influence the dish's overall texture and flavor. I recommend using short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, as they hold the creamy sauce well in every bite. Both types have ridges that help capture the sauce, ensuring that each forkful is packed with flavor.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substituting conventional pasta with gluten-free varieties works beautifully. Many brands offer pasta that mimics the taste and texture of regular pasta, making it an excellent alternative without sacrificing the dish's creamy goodness.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh mushrooms is key to enhancing the earthy flavor that defines this pasta bake. Opt for button mushrooms for a mild taste, or mix in shiitake or cremini for a more robust profile. Make sure to sauté them until golden brown, as this deepens their flavor and adds a nice texture to the dish.

Similarly, when selecting cheese, fresh, high-quality cheese will ensure that it melts perfectly and complements the creamy sauce. Both cheddar and mozzarella have distinct flavors; using a combination can elevate the dish further, providing both a sharp note from the cheddar and a stretchy, gooey texture from the mozzarella.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
250g mushrooms, sliced
200ml heavy cream
150g grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.

Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mix well to coat the pasta in the creamy mushroom sauce. If desired, stir in half the grated cheese for extra cheesiness.

Bake the Pasta

Transfer the pasta mix into a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked chicken or spinach into the bake. You can also use different cheeses for a more complex taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta bake is incredibly convenient for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, increasing the time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it's heated through.

For an even longer storage solution, this dish can be frozen! Assemble your pasta bake in a freezer-safe container, and freeze it unbaked. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual. This is a fantastic method for busy weekday dinners.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Sunday Creamy Mushroom Pasta Bake with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast that brightens the overall experience.

Another delightful way to serve this dish is to add a side of garlic bread. The crunchy, buttery bread adds texture and is perfect for scooping up any remaining creamy sauce. Both sides not only enhance the meal but also improve the family gathering atmosphere around the dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, but adjust cooking times as necessary.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure that the cheese you use is rennet-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this pasta bake?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.