Description
Creamy “Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole” brings earthy woodland flavors dancing across warm dinner plates. Hearty herbs and melted cheese create a rustic comfort meal perfect for gathering friends around delicious homestyle cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (454 g) button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare oven space by heating to 375°F and coating a 9×13 inch baking dish with light grease to prevent sticking.
- Create a flavor base by thoroughly mixing sliced mushrooms with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, ensuring each mushroom slice is evenly seasoned.
- Distribute the seasoned mushroom mixture uniformly across the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer that allows for consistent cooking.
- Generate a rich cheese layer by scattering shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the mushroom foundation, covering the entire surface.
- Enhance the dish’s creaminess by drizzling heavy cream systematically across the cheese and mushroom layer, promoting a smooth and luxurious texture.
- Craft a crispy topping by combining melted butter with breadcrumbs until fully integrated, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole surface.
- Transfer the prepared casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the top turns golden brown and the sauce begins to bubble around the edges.
- Optional: For an extra crisp finish, activate the broiler and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Allow the casserole to rest briefly after removing from the oven, which helps stabilize the sauce and intensify flavors.
- Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant touch of color and fresh herb essence before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality mushrooms for the most robust flavor and best texture in the casserole.
- Select a mix of mushroom varieties like cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms to add depth and complexity to the dish.
- Pat mushrooms dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture and ensure proper caramelization during baking.
- Choose sharp cheddar and freshly grated Parmesan for maximum cheese flavor and creamy consistency.
- Experiment with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a low-carb or celiac-friendly alternative topping.
- Allow the casserole to rest briefly after baking, which helps the sauce set and intensifies the overall flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 298
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 465 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg