Creamy Mushroom Pasta Bake

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Bake is a comforting, oven-baked dish made with tender pasta, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy, dairy-free sauce. Rich, hearty, and bursting with umami flavor, this dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta bake offers a satisfying, creamy texture with the deep earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped in a cheesy, golden top layer. It’s completely plant-based yet indulgent, making it ideal for both vegans and anyone seeking a wholesome, dairy-free meal. With a make-ahead option and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s as practical as it is delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)

• Olive oil

• Garlic

• Yellow onion

• Mushrooms (cremini or button)

• Fresh thyme

• All-purpose flour

• Unsweetened plant-based milk (such as soy or oat)

• Nutritional yeast

• Lemon juice

• Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper

• Vegan mozzarella or shredded cheese alternative

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.

4. Add mushrooms and thyme. Cook until mushrooms are browned and reduced.

5. Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the mushrooms. Slowly pour in plant-based milk, stirring to prevent lumps.

6. Add nutritional yeast, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens.

7. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce. Stir in half the vegan cheese.

8. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining vegan cheese.

9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. Total time required is approximately 45 minutes, including 20 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking.

Variations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour alternative.

• Extra protein: Add lentils or chickpeas for a heartier version.

• Nut-free: Ensure plant milk and cheese alternatives are nut-free.

• Herb swap: Replace thyme with rosemary or sage for different aromatic notes.

• Spicy option: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave. Add a splash of plant-based milk if the pasta appears dry. This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Bake just before serving.

What kind of mushrooms should I use?

Cremini, button, or a mix of wild mushrooms work well in this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for non-vegans?

Absolutely. It’s rich and flavorful enough to appeal to everyone.

Can I use store-bought vegan cheese?

Yes, use your favorite brand that melts well.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach, kale, or zucchini are excellent additions.

What does nutritional yeast do?

It adds a cheesy, umami flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce.

Can I skip the flour?

Flour is used to thicken the sauce, but you can use cornstarch or arrowroot as alternatives.

How do I avoid mushy pasta?

Cook it just until al dente before baking to prevent overcooking.

Can I make this without an oven?

You can serve it straight from the skillet after mixing everything, but it won’t have the baked texture.

What should I serve with this pasta bake?

A side salad or steamed green vegetables make great pairings.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Pasta Bake is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, baked golden top, and deep mushroom flavor, this vegan-friendly meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, it’s a dish that everyone at the table will enjoy.

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