Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin

Step 3: Prepare the Sausage and Mushroom Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Return the sausages to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, and mix everything well.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour to form a smooth roux and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually whisk in milk (and cream, if using) to prevent lumps.
4. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in half of the grated cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. In a large mixing bowl or the skillet, combine the cooked pasta, sausage and mushroom mixture, and cheese sauce.
2. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Assemble the Gratin

1. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top.
3. Optional: Add breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve warm with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Gratin

• Cheese choice: Gruyère adds a nutty flavor, mozzarella gives gooey stretch, and cheddar provides sharpness. Mixing them works beautifully.
• Mushroom variety: Experiment with shiitake or portobello for a more robust flavor.
• Make-ahead option: Assemble the gratin a few hours in advance, cover with foil, and bake just before serving.

With its combination of creamy sauce, savory sausage, and tender pasta, this Oven-Baked Sausage and Mushroom Pasta Gratin is comfort food at its finest. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests. The golden, cheesy top adds that irresistible finishing touch.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut version with step-by-step photos for each stage, which makes it even easier to follow. Do you want me to do that?