When you think of Marsala, you might picture the classic chicken or veal dish simmered in a silky wine sauce. But what if we took that same savory depth and paired it with pasta, ground beef, and a golden baked topping? Enter the Beefy Mushroom Marsala Pasta Bake — a dish that’s rich, hearty, and perfect for nights when you’re craving something cozy yet elegant.
This recipe combines the rustic flavors of beef and mushrooms with the distinct, slightly sweet tang of Marsala wine. Add in tender pasta, a creamy sauce, and a bubbly baked finish, and you’ve got a meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
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Hearty and filling: The beef and mushrooms provide plenty of substance.
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Depth of flavor: Marsala wine adds complexity that sets this dish apart from your usual pasta bake.
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Crowd-pleaser: Cheesy, creamy, and baked to perfection — it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at the dinner table.
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Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it in advance and bake when ready.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this comfort-packed bake:
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Ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor)
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Mushrooms (cremini or baby bella work beautifully)
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Onion and garlic (for the aromatic base)
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Marsala wine (dry, for the signature flavor)
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Heavy cream or half-and-half (to create a luscious sauce)
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Beef broth (to balance the richness)
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Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any short variety that holds sauce well)
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Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese (for that gooey baked topping)
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Olive oil, butter, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish, or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
