Cheesy Mushroom Casserole has been a staple in my kitchen for years, bringing a comforting warmth to any meal. I remember my mom making this dish on chilly evenings; the aroma of sautéed mushrooms and bubbling cheese filled our home, making everyone gather around the table. It’s truly the best cheesy mushroom casserole recipe I’ve ever tried, transforming simple ingredients into something incredibly special. This creamy mushroom cheese casserole is so easy to whip up, and the rich, savory flavor is just divine. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Mushroom Casserole
This isn’t just any casserole; it’s a crowd-pleaser packed with flavor and comfort!
- Incredibly rich and savory taste that satisfies
- Super quick prep time, perfect for busy weeknights
- A wonderfully mushroom cheese bake that’s naturally gluten-free
- Budget-friendly ingredients make it an economical choice
- A guaranteed hit with the whole family
- This delightful mushroom cheese bake is so easy to assemble
- Healthy too, with wholesome mushrooms and minimal processed ingredients
- Pairs perfectly as a side dish or a light vegetarian main
Ingredients for Cheesy Mushroom Casserole
Gathering the ingredients for this cheesy mushroom casserole is the first step to pure comfort. Making a dish like a classic mushroom and cheddar casserole means you’ll want to have everything prepped and ready to go. I find that having my ingredients measured out before I start cooking makes the whole process so much smoother.
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for the pan – this helps sauté the mushrooms beautifully and prevents sticking
- 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt – essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the mushrooms and onions
- 1 cup chopped onions – provides a sweet base flavor
- 32 oz sliced baby Bella or crimini mushrooms – the star of our show, these give the casserole its earthy depth
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic – adds a pungent kick that complements the mushrooms
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of warmth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – imparts a lovely savory, earthy note
- 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese – melts into a wonderfully nutty and creamy sauce, but sharp cheddar is also a great choice!
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley for garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness
How to Make Cheesy Mushroom Casserole
Whipping up this delightful cheesy mushroom casserole is a breeze, and I promise it’s even easier than it looks. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this turns into an easy cheesy mushroom bake that your family will adore. Get ready for some delicious aromas to fill your kitchen!
- Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 400 degrees F. While it’s warming up, grab your favorite 2-quart baking dish and give it a good greasing with a little olive oil. This ensures our lovely casserole doesn’t stick.
- Step 2: Now, heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your sliced mushrooms, chopped onions, and the 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released all their liquid and the moisture has mostly evaporated. This usually takes about 10 minutes, and you’ll notice the mushrooms getting beautifully browned and tender.
- Step 3: Toss in the minced garlic, black pepper, and dried thyme. Stir everything together and cook for just one more minute until you can really smell that garlic. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Step 4: Carefully transfer the savory mushroom and onion mixture to your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now for the best part – sprinkle that glorious 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese all over the top. This is what makes it a truly easy cheesy mushroom bake!
- Step 5: Pop the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden brown. The smell alone will tell you it’s ready!
- Step 6: Finally, give it a sprinkle of dried parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve this wonderful cheesy mushroom bake for dinner immediately and watch everyone dig in!
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Mushroom Casserole
I’ve made my fair share of mushroom bakes, and these little tricks really elevate the dish. Trust me, they make all the difference!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the mushrooms; this allows them to brown properly instead of steaming.
- Using a mix of mushrooms, like cremini and shiitake, can add even more depth of flavor to your cheesy mushroom bake.
- Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of white wine to the mushroom mixture.
What’s the secret to perfect cheesy mushroom casserole?
The real secret to a perfect cheesy mushroom casserole, almost like a delightful cheesy mushroom gratin, is cooking down the mushrooms properly to evaporate their liquid. This concentrates their flavor and prevents a watery dish. For more tips on cooking mushrooms, check out this guide on how to cook mushrooms.
Can I make cheesy mushroom casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble this dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with cheesy mushroom casserole?
The most common pitfall is a watery casserole. To avoid this, ensure you cook down the mushrooms until their liquid evaporates completely. Also, don’t skip preheating your oven; a properly hot oven ensures the cheese melts and browns beautifully.
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Mushroom Casserole
This versatile cheesy mushroom casserole is fantastic as a standalone side dish or can be the star of a comforting meal. It’s the ultimate mushroom casserole comfort food, pairing beautifully with so many mains. I love serving it alongside a perfectly grilled steak or some roasted chicken. For a lighter meal, it’s also delicious with a fresh, crisp salad or some steamed green beans. The rich, earthy flavor complements a variety of dishes, making it a truly adaptable addition to any menu.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Mushroom Casserole
This delightful cheesy mushroom casserole is a wonderful addition to any meal, offering a rich flavor profile. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Mushroom Casserole
Once your delicious cheesy mushroom casserole has cooled down, storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying this simple mushroom casserole with cheese later. I usually let it cool on the counter for about 20-30 minutes before transferring any leftovers. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this casserole freezes beautifully! Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, and it should keep for about 3 months.
When you’re ready to reheat, you have a few options. For individual portions, a quick zap in the microwave for 1-2 minutes usually does the trick. If you’re reheating a larger amount from the fridge, pop it back into a preheated oven at around 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through, about 10-15 minutes. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight first for best results, then follow the oven method.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Mushroom Casserole
What is a cheesy mushroom casserole?
A cheesy mushroom casserole is a baked dish featuring mushrooms as the primary ingredient, enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish, often served as a side but substantial enough to be a main course, especially when enjoyed as a cheesy mushroom bake for dinner.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Gruyere provides a wonderful nutty flavor, you can easily substitute it with other melting cheeses. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a blend of your favorites work beautifully. Experimenting with different cheeses can give your cheesy mushroom bake a unique twist each time.
How do I make a vegetarian version of this casserole?
This recipe is already vegetarian! The base of mushrooms, onions, and cheese makes it a naturally vegetarian-friendly dish. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a meatless side or main, embodying the essence of a hearty vegetarian meal.
What can I serve with this cheesy mushroom casserole?
This casserole is incredibly adaptable. It makes a fantastic side dish for roasted meats like chicken or beef, or it can be the star of a vegetarian meal served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. It’s the ultimate mushroom casserole comfort food that complements many flavors.
Variations of Cheesy Mushroom Casserole You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheesy mushroom casserole! There are so many ways to customize this dish to your liking.
- Creamy & Decadent: For an extra-rich experience, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream into the mushroom mixture before adding the cheese. This creates an even more luxurious, savory cheesy mushroom casserole.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mushroom mixture for a bit of heat that contrasts wonderfully with the cheese.
- Herb Garden Fresh: Swap out the dried thyme and parsley for fresh herbs! Finely chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives added at the end can really brighten the flavors. This is perfect for a quick cheesy mushroom bake.
- Gluten-Free & Low-Carb Upgrade: If you’re watching carbs, consider topping the casserole with crushed pork rinds or toasted slivered almonds instead of breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch without the carbs.
Cheesy Mushroom Casserole: Amazing Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy cheesy mushroom casserole made with Gruyere cheese, onions, and savory seasonings. This comforting dish is perfect as a side or a light main course.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
- 32 oz sliced baby Bella or crimini mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley for garnish
- 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for the pan
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Grease a 2-quart baking dish with olive oil.
- Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, the onion, and the kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and the liquids have mostly evaporated, about 10 minutes.
- Add the garlic, black pepper and thyme. Cook, stirring, one more minute. Remove from heat.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
- Bake until hot and bubbly, about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
Notes
- Mushrooms are technically fungi, not vegetables.
- This casserole pairs well with steak or roast chicken.
- Consider serving with colored vegetables like steamed broccoli or a tomato salad.
- The recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
