Name: Creamy Mushroom Ziti Bake (40-Minute Oven Pasta Dinner)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Ziti; 2 cups Mushrooms (chopped or sliced); 4 tbsp Butter; 2 tsp Garlic (minced); 1 can Tomatoes (crushed); 3/4 cup Heavy cream (or milk swap); 1 cup Mozzarella (shredded); 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1/2 tsp Oregano (dried); 1/2 tsp Basil (dried); Salt + pepper (to taste)

Flavour Quest Recipes

Creamy Mushroom Ziti Bake (40-Minute Oven Pasta Dinner)

Creamy mushroom ziti bake is a comforting oven pasta made with tender ziti, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce baked until bubbly. Hearty and satisfying, it’s an easy dinner that delivers cozy flavor with minimal prep.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

12 oz Ziti
2 cups Mushrooms chopped or sliced
4 tbsp Butter
2 tsp Garlic minced
1 can Tomatoes crushed
3/4 cup Heavy cream or milk swap
1 cup Mozzarella shredded
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
1/2 tsp Oregano dried
1/2 tsp Basil dried
Salt + pepper to taste

Method

Boil ziti al dente. Drain and reserve pasta water if needed.
Melt butter, add mushrooms with salt + pepper, brown until aroma deepens and edges caramelize.
Add garlic, stir 45 sec.
Add tomato paste, let darken 1 minute.
Add crushed tomatoes + oregano, simmer 8 minutes.
Pour cream, simmer 2–3 minutes until cling-thick.
Add ziti into sauce, fold until coated.
Layer into baking dish, top mozzarella + Parmesan.
Bake 12–14 min at 375℉ until cheese melts. Rest 6 minutes.
Garnish with basil and serve.

🔄 Variations

Add spinach or kale for a fresh green boost.

Stir in caramelized onions for extra depth.

Swap part of the cream for ricotta for a lighter texture.

Add Italian sausage or grilled chicken for extra protein.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Finish with extra grated cheese or fresh herbs before serving.

💡 Tips

Brown the mushrooms well to build deep, savory flavor.

Cover loosely with foil for the first half of baking to prevent over-browning.

Let the bake rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets.

❄️ Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make this ziti bake ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes. Penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes.

Q: Why is my baked pasta dry?
A: It may need more sauce or a shorter bake time. Add a splash of cream when reheating if needed.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.