Introduction

This Mushroom Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender penne pasta with a rich cauliflower-based Alfredo sauce. Sautéed mushrooms and onions add depth and earthiness, while melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses create a golden, bubbly topping perfect for a cozy meal.

Mushroom Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 batch cauliflower Alfredo sauce
1 lb penne pasta
16 oz sliced mushrooms
1 large onion, diced
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cauliflower Alfredo sauce following your preferred recipe or instructions.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion.
Step 3: Sauté the mushrooms and onions for 10 to 15 minutes, until the mushrooms release their liquid and soften.
Step 4: Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 5: In a large 13 x 9-inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed mushrooms and onions, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and cauliflower Alfredo sauce.
Step 6: Stir everything together and season with 1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste.
Step 7: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
Step 8: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starts to brown.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add garlic while sautéing the mushrooms and onions.
Swap mozzarella for fontina or gouda for a different cheese experience.
Add cooked spinach or kale to the mix for additional greens.
Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free version.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave on medium power, stirring halfway through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of cauliflower Alfredo?

Yes, you can substitute with a regular Alfredo sauce, but the cauliflower version adds a nutritious twist and lighter texture.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This bake contains no meat and can be enjoyed by vegetarians. Just ensure the cheese you use doesn’t contain animal rennet if you prefer strict vegetarian options.

Mushroom Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 76 reviews

This Mushroom Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy, comforting dish combining a healthy cauliflower-based Alfredo sauce with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and tender penne pasta. Topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a perfect hearty meal that offers rich flavors with a nutritious twist.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce

1 batch cauliflower alfredo sauce

Pasta Bake

1 lb penne pasta
16 oz sliced mushrooms
1 large onion, diced
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

Prepare Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce: Make the cauliflower Alfredo sauce according to your chosen recipe’s instructions, ensuring it is smooth and creamy.
Sauté Mushrooms and Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion, cooking for 10-15 minutes until the mushrooms release their liquid and both ingredients are tender and reduced.
Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine Ingredients: In a large 13×9 inch baking dish, mix together the cooked penne, sautéed mushrooms and onions, freshly grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and the prepared cauliflower Alfredo sauce.
Season: Add 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste) and mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the top of the pasta mixture evenly with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the assembled pasta bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and starts to turn golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then serve warm garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

You can prepare the cauliflower Alfredo sauce ahead of time to save on meal prep.
For a richer flavor, use freshly grated cheeses rather than pre-shredded varieties.
Substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti if preferred.
Adding garlic during the mushroom and onion sauté can enhance flavor.
To keep it vegetarian, ensure your parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly or substitute with a vegan alternative.

Keywords: cauliflower alfredo, pasta bake, mushroom pasta, vegetarian pasta, baked penne, creamy pasta bake