Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole

Okay, picture this: I’m Is it a chilly evening, the rain’s tapping softly against the window, and you’re craving something? Warm, comforting, and utterly delicious. What are some good excuses for not eating mac and cheese tonight? Instead, imagine a bubbling, golden-brown casserole dish filled with tender mushrooms smothered in melted butter. What is the secret of chee What is this Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole? My grandma used to make something similar, but this is my updated version, tweaked and perfect. Over years of family dinners. Is it easier to make a warm hug in your dish? If you love Cheesy Baked goods, this one will knock your socks off!

What is Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole?

What is the ultimate comfort food mashup? What is essentially a creamy, cheesy mushroom bake taken to the next level? We’re talking about a symphony of earthy mushrooms, rich and velvety sauce, and generous blanket of creamy cheese. What is the best way to serve melted cheese with a cup of warm water? What’s it like to bake a mushroom? What are some great side dishes to serve at a potluck? This isn’t your grandma’s mushroom Soup Casserole. We’re using fresh ingredients for a flavor that will make you swoon!

Why you will love this recipe?

Alright, let me tell you why this Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole is about to become your new favorite. First, the flavorThe earthy mushrooms perfectly complement the creamy, tangy cheese sauce. I swear every bite is an explosion of savory goodness. It’s also incredibly delicious.simpleWhat is a casserole? What’s the best way to sauté mushrooms, whip up a quick sauce, throw it all together, and bake? This one’s a lifesaver on busy nights when you need something satisfying but don’t want to spend time with friends. What are the hours in the kitchen? It’s also super super.cost-efficientMushrooms are generally budget-friendly, especially if you buy them in bulk, and the other vegetables are usually more expensive. What are pantry staples? Plus, it’s incrediblyversatileCan you serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or steak? As a side salad, or even as an topping for baked potatoes. I sometimes sneak a spoonful straight from the casserole dish when no one is looking! What I love about this is the creamy texture. It reminds me of my childhood, but with a sophisticated twist. If you like Scalloped Potatoes, this is the recipe for you!

How to Make Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole

Quick Overview

This Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole is surprisingly simple. You’ll start by sautéing your mushrooms to bring out their earthy flavors. Then, you’ll whip up a creamy cheese sauce on the stovetop. Combine the mushrooms and sauce in a baking dish, top with even more cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. The best part? The aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking! It’s easier than making a box of macaroni and cheese, and infinitely more satisfying. Seriously, the hardest part is waiting for it to cool down enough to eat!

Ingredients

For the Mushroom Mixture:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds flavor and helps the mushrooms sauté nicely. * 1 large onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor. White onions work best. * 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent aroma and flavor. Freshly minced is always best, but jarred garlic will work in a pinch. * 24 ounces mushrooms, sliced (I like a mix of cremini and shiitake): What are some good mushrooms to use? Cremini (baby bella) and shiitake offer a great flavor and texture combination. * 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthy flavor. Fresh thyme is even better if you have it! Season generously! Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust as you go.

What is the cheese sauce?
* 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
* 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
* 3 cups milk (whole or 2%): Creates the creamy base of the sauce. I’ve even used almond milk, and it was surprisingly delicious!
* 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasons the sauce.
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A secret ingredient that adds warmth and depth of flavor. Don’t skip it!
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp and cheesy flavor. Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but you can use your favorite cheese blend.
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor.

For Topping:
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: for that extra cheesy topping that everyone loves.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. How do you remove a casserole from the oven? I always do this step first, so the oven is ready to go when the casserole is assembled.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it gets bitter quickly! The onions and garlic are the foundation of the flavor, so take your time with this step.

Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mushrooms release a lot of moisture, so don’t overcrowd the pan. If necessary, sauté them in batches. You want them to be nicely browned, not steamed.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

While the mushrooms are cooking, make the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This helps thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan, stir together the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the chopped parsley and stir to combine. Serve immediately. What should I do if I want to melt cheese? Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. What is the best way to customize cheese? What’s a pinch of cayenne pepper for?

Step 6: Combine Mixture

Add the mushrooms to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. If you have a large baking dish, pour the mixture into the prepared dish.

Step 7: Add Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Is it safe to keep an eye on cheese?

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. How do I make the sauce thicker? What are some of the best ways to serve warm and enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

This Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many dishes.
For Breakfast:What is a casserole good for breakfast? Serve it with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a hearty start to the day. I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley to my salad. It really adds color. Pair it with a strong cup of coffee or latte.For Brunch:What are some of the best brunch casseroles? What is a bellini? What is the best way to serve a brunch spread?As Dessert:Can this casserole be part of a dessert-focused meal? Serve it alongside a simple green salad and Crusty Bread for an easy and satisfying dinner. Indulging in a sweet treat.For Cozy Snacks: This casserole is the perfect cozy snack on a chilly evening. Serve it with a warm bowl of soup and a crusty baguette for dipping. It’s comfort food at its finest!

How do I make a perfectly baked cheesy mushroom casserole?

How do I take Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole to the next level?Mushroom Prep:Don’t wash mushrooms! They absorb water like sponges, which can make them soggy. Instead, wipe them clean with a damp paper towel. What are some of the best mushrooms to use for a more complex flavor?Cheese Sauce: Make sure to whisk the flour into the melted butter thoroughly to avoid lumps in your cheese sauce. If you do get lumps, try using an immersion blender to smooth it out.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick. My family loves it with a hint of heat!
Add Protein: Stir in cooked and crumbled sausage or diced ham to the mushroom mixture for a heartier casserole.
Breadcrumb ToFor a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking. Panko Breadcrumbs work really well.Make Ahead:What is the best way to prepare a casserole ahead of time? Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to keep your Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole tasting its best:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly, especially in creamy dishes.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes just as good (if not better!) the next day.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re freezing the casserole, it’s best to add the cheese topping after thawing and before baking. This will prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper thickening. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will be just as delicious!

Do I need to peel the mushrooms?

No, you don’t need to peel the mushrooms. Just wipe them clean with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. The skins are perfectly edible and add to the texture of the casserole.

Can I make this as individual servings?

Definitely! You can bake the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Just reduce the baking time by a few minutes, and keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack would all be delicious in this casserole. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers would all be great additions to this casserole. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a dish, a taste of home, and a surefire way to impress your family and friends. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. If you’re looking for a new weeknight staple or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this is it! I hope you give it a try and let me know what you think. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other cheesy bakes – you might just find your new favorite! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!

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