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Introduction

Looking for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dish? This Easy Baked Asparagus & Mushroom Pasta Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, packed with nutritious veggies. Whether you need a simple weeknight dinner, a meal for a potluck, or a satisfying vegetarian option, this pasta casserole will not disappoint.

With tender asparagus, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta baked in a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is a wholesome and hearty meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste, add proteins if desired, or even make it gluten-free.

Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – Simple steps and minimal prep work make this a great weeknight meal.
• Full of Flavor – The combination of mushrooms, asparagus, garlic, and creamy sauce creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Vegetarian-Friendly – A hearty and filling dish without any meat.
• Customizable – Add proteins like chicken or shrimp, swap cheeses, or make it gluten-free.
• Great for Leftovers – Reheats well for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Ingredients

Pasta & Vegetables:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or portobello), sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for creamier texture)
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese

Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh, chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions (it will finish cooking in the oven).
3. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened.
4. Add asparagus and cook for 2 more minutes, keeping it slightly crisp.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.
3. Slowly whisk in milk and broth, stirring constantly.
4. Add Dijon mustard, oregano, and thyme, and let the sauce thicken for 3–4 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce.
3. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and parsley.
5. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

5. Bake & Serve

1. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
2. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Enjoy as is, or serve with a side salad and garlic bread!

Serving Suggestions

• With a Fresh Salad – A light, lemony arugula or spinach salad complements the creamy pasta.
• Paired with Garlic Bread – A crusty baguette or cheesy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the sauce.
• Topped with Extra Cheese – Add more Parmesan or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze – A little balsamic reduction enhances the flavors beautifully.

Tips for the Best Baked Asparagus & Mushroom Pasta Casserole

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh asparagus and mushrooms provide the best flavor and texture.
• Undercook the Pasta – Since it will continue to cook in the oven, slightly undercooking it prevents mushy pasta.
• Let the Sauce Thicken – A properly thickened sauce ensures a creamy, not watery, casserole.
• Customize the Cheese – Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or smoked Gouda.
• Make it Crunchier – Add crushed crackers or extra breadcrumbs for more crunch.

Variations

• Protein-Packed Version – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra protein.
• Vegan Option – Use plant-based milk, dairy-free cheese, and vegan butter.
• Gluten-Free Alternative – Swap the pasta for gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour for the sauce.
• Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños or increase the red pepper flakes.
• Extra Veggies – Include zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for more color and nutrients.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a well-sealed container.

Reheating

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and warm over low heat.

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Asparagus & Mushroom Pasta Casserole is a wonderful dish for any occasion. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender asparagus and mushrooms, it’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or meal-prepping for the week, this pasta casserole is sure to be a favorite.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, comforting dish with minimal effort!