Portobello Penne Pasta Casserole

This Portobello Penne Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce, savory portobello mushrooms, and tender pasta in one delicious casserole dish. Packed with rich flavors, this easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and weeknight meals. The creamy mozzarella, combined with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and the subtle hint of soy sauce, creates a hearty and satisfying dish your family will love. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this Portobello Penne Pasta Casserole is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is great for both beginners and experienced home cooks.

Ingredients

• 1 (8oz) package uncooked penne pasta
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• ½ lb portobello mushrooms, thinly sliced
• ½ cup butter or margarine
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp dried basil
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 (10oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
• ¼ cup soy sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the sliced portobello mushrooms until tender, allowing most of the liquid to evaporate.
4. In a large pot, melt the butter or margarine. Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the flour and dried basil, cooking for an additional minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking to avoid lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens.
6. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and cook until melted.
7. Add the thawed spinach and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
8. Mix in the sautéed mushrooms, then the cooked pasta, stirring until well combined.
9. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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Tips

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for additional flavor and nutrition.
• Use gluten-free pasta: For a gluten-free version, swap the regular penne pasta with gluten-free pasta.
• Make it creamy: For an even creamier casserole, add a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce in place of some of the milk.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cheese, and soy milk to make this casserole vegan-friendly.
• Cheese variations: Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or a combination of your favorite cheeses.
• Spinach alternatives: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try using kale or arugula as a substitute.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of portobello?
Yes, you can use other types of mushrooms like cremini or white button mushrooms in place of portobello for a milder flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from the fridge.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce.
• For a more hearty meal, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Portobello Penne Pasta Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s loaded with flavor. The rich, creamy sauce, savory mushrooms, and gooey melted mozzarella make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a versatile meal that can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for a family dinner or as a make-ahead dish for busy nights. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies like spinach while still satisfying your cravings for a delicious, cheesy pasta dish!