Name: Creamy Mushroom Alfredo Penne Bake
Prep time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb whole wheat penne pasta; 1 head cauliflower (about 6-7 cups of florets); 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth, divided; 3/4 cups milk; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cloves garlic; 24 ounces fresh sliced mushrooms; 4 tablespoons butter, divided; 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

This Mushroom Alfredo Penne Bake is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender pasta with a rich, creamy sauce. It offers a healthier twist using whole wheat pasta and cauliflower, without sacrificing any flavor. Prepare for a dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. Packed with savory mushrooms and a velvety smooth Alfredo sauce, this bake is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The addition of Gruyere cheese creates a delightful bubbly crust, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

⏱ Time: 45 min

👥 Servings: 6-8

📊 Level: Medium

🥗 10 ingredients

Creamy Mushroom Alfredo Penne Bake

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Prep Time 45

Total Time 45

Servings: 8

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1 lb whole wheat penne pasta
1 head cauliflower (about 6-7 cups of florets)
3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth, divided
3/4 cups milk
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic
24 ounces fresh sliced mushrooms
4 tablespoons butter, divided
1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Method

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Cook the pasta for 5 minutes – it should still be a little firm. Drain, toss with a drizzle of oil, and set aside.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the cauliflower, and cook for 5 minutes until tender-crisp. Meanwhile saute the minced garlic with a tablespoon of butter. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked cauliflower to a blender with 2 cups broth, milk, oil, salt, and sauteed garlic. Puree until very smooth. You might need to do this in batches.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Heat the 3 tablespoons butter in a very large skillet. Add the mushrooms and saute until golden brown.
Toss the cooked pasta, cauliflower sauce, and mushrooms together. Add the remaining cup of broth to help the consistency stay saucy.
Transfer to a deep 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and bake uncovered at 400 for 10-15 minutes. Some of the moisture from the mushrooms will seep out – give it a quick stir to reincorporate it and make it creamy.

Notes

– Use fresh, high-quality mushrooms for the best flavor.
– Ensure the cauliflower is pureed until completely smooth for a silky sauce.
– Don’t overcook the pasta initially, as it will bake further.
– Fresh sage ribbons add a beautiful aromatic garnish.

Pro tips

Use fresh, high-quality mushrooms for the best flavor.
Ensure the cauliflower is pureed until completely smooth for a silky sauce.
Don’t overcook the pasta initially, as it will bake further.
Fresh sage ribbons add a beautiful aromatic garnish.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious Mushroom Alfredo Penne Bake. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite herbs or a touch of spice. Serve hot and savor every bite!

Try this next: Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Goat Cheese