Introduction

This Mushroom Casserole is a comforting, savory dish that’s perfect for cozy meals or special occasions. The rich, earthy flavor of the mushrooms blends beautifully with a creamy, velvety sauce, while the golden, cheesy crust adds a layer of indulgent texture that’s impossible to resist. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or let it shine as a main course, this casserole is guaranteed to hit the spot.

I remember making this for a family dinner on a chilly evening, and it quickly became the highlight of the meal. The way the mushrooms soak up the herbs and seasonings creates a flavor that feels both rustic and sophisticated. Plus, the creamy sauce ties everything together, making each bite a perfect mix of hearty and comforting.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can add your favorite herbs, sprinkle in some garlic, or even toss in other veggies or protein for a personal twist. It’s a dish that’s as flexible as it is satisfying, perfect for weeknights or holiday gatherings. Warm, filling, and loaded with flavor, this mushroom casserole will have everyone asking for seconds!

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Holiday gatherings
• Potlucks
• Comfort food cravings
• Vegetarians (if using meatless ingredients)

Why You’ll Love This Casserole with Mushrooms

Here’s why Mushroom Casserole will become a favorite in your recipe rotation:

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of mushrooms and a creamy sauce makes each bite velvety smooth, creating a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
• Earthy Mushroom Flavor: Mushrooms bring an earthy depth to the casserole that makes it incredibly satisfying and savory.
• Simple to Make: With a few simple ingredients, this casserole comes together quickly and easily, without requiring any complex cooking techniques.
• Cheesy Topping: The melted cheese on top adds a delightful golden, crispy layer that enhances both the flavor and the presentation.
• Customizable: You can easily add vegetables, herbs, or meats to the casserole to make it your own, adapting it to your preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Mushroom Casserole:

• 2 pounds mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix of your favorites), sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional for extra richness)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Mushrooms: The star of the dish, mushrooms provide a hearty, umami-rich flavor that forms the base of the casserole. You can mix different types like cremini, button, and shiitake for a more complex flavor.
• Heavy Cream and Sour Cream/Cream Cheese: These ingredients create the creamy sauce that coats the mushrooms and gives the casserole its luxurious texture.
• Cheese: Parmesan and cheddar bring the perfect blend of sharpness and meltiness, with a cheesy crust that adds both flavor and texture to the casserole.
• Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs on top create a crispy, golden finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior of the casserole.
• Herbs and Garlic: Thyme and garlic enhance the earthy flavor of the mushrooms and add depth to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Mushroom Casserole:

Prepare the Casserole Filling:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and sour cream or cream cheese (if using). Add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, mixing until smooth. Let the mixture cook for another 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Combine the Filling Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the Parmesan cheese and half of the cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble and Bake the Casserole:

5. Transfer to the Casserole Dish: Pour the mushroom mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and cheddar cheese over the mushroom mixture. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
8. Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

How to Serve Casserole with Mushrooms

Mushroom Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork for a complete meal.
• As a Vegetarian Main: This casserole can easily stand on its own as a main course for vegetarians, especially when paired with a simple salad or some crusty bread.
• With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy mushrooms complement mashed potatoes wonderfully for a hearty, comforting meal.
• For Holiday Meals: Make this casserole a part of your holiday table—it pairs well with festive dishes and adds an earthy, savory touch to the spread.
• With a Green Vegetable: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to balance the richness of the casserole.

Additional Tips for Casserole with Mushrooms

Here are some tips to ensure your Mushroom Casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms will provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid using dried mushrooms in this recipe, as the casserole benefits from the mushrooms’ moisture and tenderness.
• Use Full-Fat Dairy: For a richer, more flavorful casserole, opt for full-fat heavy cream and sour cream or cream cheese. You can substitute with lighter versions, but the dish will be less creamy.
• Season Well: Taste the sauce before assembling the casserole and adjust the seasoning. Mushrooms can absorb a lot of salt, so make sure to season generously.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to make the casserole even heartier and more colorful.
• Use Homemade Breadcrumbs: If you have leftover bread, make your own breadcrumbs for a fresher, more flavorful topping.
• Avoid Overcooking the Mushrooms: Mushrooms release moisture when cooking. If you cook them for too long, they can become dry and rubbery. Just cook them until they release their liquid and begin to brown.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you have a large cast iron skillet, you can make this dish in one pan and then transfer it directly to the oven for a rustic presentation.

Recipe Variations for Casserole with Mushrooms

Here are 10 variations you can try for Mushroom Casserole:

• Spinach Mushroom Casserole: Add fresh spinach to the mushroom mixture for extra greens and a burst of color.
• Mushroom and Leek Casserole: Add sautéed leeks for a mild onion flavor that complements the mushrooms.
• Mushroom and Bacon Casserole: Add crispy cooked bacon to the casserole for a smoky, savory twist.
• Mushroom and Chicken Casserole: Add cooked, shredded chicken for a more filling casserole that includes protein.
• Mushroom and Asparagus Casserole: Toss in some blanched asparagus for an elegant touch.
• Mushroom and Herb Casserole: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
• Vegan Mushroom Casserole: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and vegan cheese to make the casserole completely plant-based.
• Gluten-Free Mushroom Casserole: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the cream and cheese are gluten-free.
• Spicy Mushroom Casserole: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Mushroom and Gruyère Casserole: Swap cheddar for gruyère cheese for a nutty, sophisticated flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Casserole with Mushrooms

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Mushroom Casserole easier:

• Skillet: A large skillet for sautéing the mushrooms and making the sauce.
• Casserole Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for this recipe, though a smaller dish can be used for a thicker casserole.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure precise ingredients for the best flavor.
• Grater: A cheese grater for freshly grated Parmesan and cheddar cheese.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the breadcrumbs with butter and other topping ingredients.
• Oven Thermometer: To ensure the casserole is baking at the correct temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions for Casserole with Mushrooms

1. Can I use different mushrooms?
   Yes, you can use any variety of mushrooms you prefer, such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello, or a mix for varied texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I add meat to the casserole?
   Yes, cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon would all be great additions to this dish.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
5. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
   Yes, just substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free.

Print

Conclusion

Mushroom Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Featuring tender mushrooms, a creamy base, a golden cheesy topping, and a crispy breadcrumb crust, this casserole delivers layers of flavor and texture in every bite. It’s the perfect addition to family dinners, potlucks, or holiday spreads, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.

Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with additions like garlic, herbs, or extra vegetables, Mushroom Casserole is endlessly customizable to suit your tastes. Serve it as a side dish or make it the star of the meal—it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

I’d love to see your take on this Mushroom Casserole! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!