If you’re looking for a delicious side dish or a light main course that’s full of flavor, this Baked Cheesy Mushroom Casserole is a must-try! Packed with earthy mushrooms, a rich creamy sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or a simple green salad. Ready to bake up something delicious? Let’s dive into this savory and comforting casserole!
Ingredients
- Fresh mushrooms (16 oz, sliced; use a mix of button, cremini, or baby bella)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Onion (1 medium, finely diced)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded)
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped)
- Salt (½ tsp)
- Black pepper (½ tsp)
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
- Panko breadcrumbs (½ cup)
- Butter (2 tbsp, melted)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they release their juices and become golden brown. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add the sautéed mushrooms and vegetables to the creamy mixture and mix until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mushroom mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this savory and cheesy delight!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this casserole with grilled chicken, steak, or fish, or enjoy it as a vegetarian main dish with a side of crusty bread.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Helpful Notes
- For extra flavor, add ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham to the mushroom mixture.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add extra veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Ina Garten suggests using a variety of mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini, or portobello, for a richer flavor.
Julia Child recommends sautéing the mushrooms until all their liquid has evaporated to enhance their flavor.
Jamie Oliver advises adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the mushroom mixture to brighten the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute or add cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese alternatives, coconut cream, or a cashew-based cream to replace the heavy cream and cream cheese.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon make great additions to this dish.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Can I use canned mushrooms?
Fresh mushrooms are best for flavor and texture, but you can use canned mushrooms if needed. Make sure to drain them well.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it’s bubbly around the edges, the cheese is melted, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Enjoy this Baked Cheesy Mushroom Casserole—a comforting, savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
