Baked Cheesy Mushroom Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This savory, creamy dish is loaded with tender mushrooms, melted cheese, and a hint of fresh herbs, making it a delicious side dish or even a main course for those who adore rich, hearty flavors. The combination of button mushrooms and two kinds of cheese creates an indulgent flavor profile, while the topping of golden breadcrumbs adds a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a festive gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

One of the best things about this baked mushroom casserole is its simplicity. It requires minimal preparation and uses ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, it can easily be customized to suit your taste, making it a versatile choice for various occasions. The dish is especially ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, where comfort food is always a hit. With only a short baking time and minimal hands-on effort, you can enjoy a rich, cheesy, and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This casserole offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, perfect for mushroom and cheese lovers alike.

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient in the baked cheesy mushrooms casserole plays a crucial role in building the dish’s flavor and texture:

• Button Mushrooms: The star of the dish, button mushrooms bring an earthy, umami flavor and a tender texture. As they bake, they release their moisture, blending with the creamy sauce and cheese to create a hearty base for the casserole. Their mild taste pairs perfectly with the boldness of the cheese and cream.
• Olive Oil & Butter: Olive oil helps to coat and season the mushrooms, ensuring they caramelize slightly and develop a richer flavor when baked. Butter, mixed with breadcrumbs, adds richness and enhances the crunchiness of the topping.
• Cheddar & Parmesan Cheese: The combination of sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan elevates the casserole. Cheddar provides a creamy, gooey texture when melted, while Parmesan adds a savory depth and a hint of saltiness. Together, they create a delightful cheesy layer that melds with the mushrooms.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient binds the dish together, forming a rich, velvety sauce. The cream helps to carry the flavors of the garlic, thyme, and cheese throughout the casserole, making every bite smooth and satisfying.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper are essential for balancing the richness of the cream and cheese. The thyme adds a slightly floral, aromatic note, while garlic powder brings warmth and depth to the dish.
• Breadcrumbs (Optional): Breadcrumbs, mixed with melted butter, provide an optional crispy topping that contrasts with the creamy, cheesy filling. They turn golden and crunchy as the casserole bakes, adding texture to each bite.
• Fresh Parsley: Finally, fresh parsley is sprinkled on top as a garnish. It brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions and Variations

Preparation 

Preparing the baked cheesy mushroom casserole is straightforward and quick. Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly baked, flavorful dish:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready once all the ingredients are assembled. Meanwhile, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier.
2. Prepare the mushrooms: In a large mixing bowl, add 1 lb of sliced button mushrooms. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the mushrooms and toss them gently to coat. Season with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure all the mushrooms are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. Assemble the casserole: Evenly spread the seasoned mushrooms in the greased baking dish. It’s important to distribute them in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. On top of the mushrooms, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheeses will melt and blend beautifully during baking, creating a rich, creamy layer.
4. Add the cream: Pour 1 cup of heavy cream evenly over the mushroom and cheese mixture. The cream will soak through the mushrooms, combining with the melted cheese to form a luxurious sauce.
5. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of melted butter with ½ cup of breadcrumbs (optional). This mixture will form a crunchy, golden topping when baked. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
   • Tip for even distribution: Ensure the mushrooms are spread in an even layer in the dish, and toss them well in the seasonings to guarantee that each bite is flavorful.
   • Pro Tip: Make sure the mushrooms are completely coated in the olive oil and seasonings to help them caramelize and become more flavorful during baking.

Baking the Casserole

Once the casserole is assembled, it’s time to bake:

1. Bake the casserole: Place the prepared casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The key indicators of doneness are when the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. This ensures that the cheese has melted fully and the mushrooms are cooked through.
2. Optional broiling: For an extra-crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Set the oven to broil on high and keep a close eye on the casserole to prevent burning. This step helps to create a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
3. Rest and garnish: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors settle and makes the casserole easier to slice. Finally, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to balance the richness of the cheese and cream.

Recipe Variations 

Baked cheesy mushroom casserole is highly customizable to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some great ways to change up the recipe:

1. Adding Protein:
   • Cooked Chicken: To make this a more filling, main-course dish, add 1-2 cups of diced or shredded cooked chicken. Simply layer the cooked chicken over the mushrooms before adding the cheese and cream. This adds a hearty, meaty texture while complementing the creaminess of the dish.
   • Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon brings a smoky flavor that pairs well with mushrooms and cheese. Cook 4-5 slices of bacon, crumble them, and sprinkle on top of the casserole or mix them in with the mushroom layer.
   • Sausage: For a richer, spicier variation, add ½ cup of cooked, crumbled sausage. This works especially well with mushrooms, giving the dish a more robust flavor.
2. Different Cheese Options:
   • Swap or mix cheeses to create different flavor profiles. Mozzarella offers a milder, creamier texture, while Gouda provides a smoky, sweet flavor. Gruyère is another great option for its nutty, savory taste. Try a blend of cheeses to find the perfect combination for your preferences.
3. Vegetarian Enhancements:
   • Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional content and add variety to the dish. Lightly sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole to ensure they cook evenly.
4. Gluten-Free Version:
   • To make the dish gluten-free, simply omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Alternatively, crushed gluten-free crackers can provide a similar crunchy topping.
5. Low-Fat Option:
   • Replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or light cream to reduce the fat content without sacrificing too much of the creaminess. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese for an even lighter version.

Serving Suggestions 

Baked cheesy mushroom casserole is versatile and pairs well with various sides, making it suitable as either a main course or a side dish.

• Main Course: Serve this casserole as a comforting main dish, paired with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
• Side Dish: It also works beautifully as a rich side for heartier entrees like roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or pork chops. Pair it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Accompaniments: If you prefer lighter sides, pair the casserole with a fresh garden salad, sautéed greens, or even a pasta dish to balance out the creaminess.
• Beverage Pairing: For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine (like Chardonnay) complements the rich flavors well, or you can keep it casual with a glass of iced tea or sparkling water.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Cheesy Mushroom Casserole 

To make sure your baked cheesy mushroom casserole turns out perfect every time, follow these key tips:

1. Avoid Soggy Mushrooms: Mushrooms release a lot of moisture during cooking, which can make the casserole watery if they aren’t properly prepared. The key is to slice the mushrooms evenly and avoid overcrowding them in the pan. This allows them to cook evenly and caramelize, releasing moisture before the rest of the ingredients are added.
2. Even Cheese Melting and Crispy Toppings: For the best results, make sure the cheese is evenly distributed across the top of the mushrooms. This helps the cheese melt uniformly and ensures every bite has the perfect amount of creamy, cheesy goodness. If you’re using breadcrumbs, mixing them with melted butter before sprinkling them on top ensures a golden, crispy topping.
3. Choosing the Right Bakeware: Using a ceramic or glass baking dish is recommended for this casserole. These materials distribute heat more evenly than metal pans, resulting in better overall cooking, especially for creamy casseroles like this one.
4. Adjusting Portions: The recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd or halved for smaller portions. If making a larger batch, ensure the baking dish is large enough to prevent overcrowding, which can affect cooking time.
   • Pro Tip: After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, and the sauce to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers 

Proper storage and reheating techniques can help you enjoy the casserole even after the first meal:

1. Refrigerating Leftovers: To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the texture intact.
2. Freezing: If you want to freeze the casserole, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Reheating:
   • For the best texture, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. This method helps retain the crispy topping and prevents sogginess.
   • Alternatively, you can use the microwave for faster reheating, but the topping may lose its crispiness. Reheat in the microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
4. Refreshing the Topping: If the breadcrumb topping has softened during storage, you can revive it by broiling the reheated casserole for a couple of minutes to regain its crispy texture.

FAQs 

1. Can I use different types of mushrooms?
   • Yes, you can substitute button mushrooms with portobello, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms. Each variety offers a slightly different texture and flavor. Cremini and shiitake will bring an even deeper, earthier flavor to the dish, while portobellos will add a meatier texture.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Yes, the casserole can be prepared in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
3. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?
   • To avoid a watery casserole, ensure the mushrooms are not overcrowded in the dish. You can also pre-sauté the mushrooms before assembling the casserole, which will help them release their moisture beforehand.
4. Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs for the topping?
   • No, breadcrumbs are optional. If you prefer a softer, creamier casserole, you can skip them. However, breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.
5. Can I freeze the casserole?
   • Yes, the casserole freezes well. For the best results, freeze it before baking. If freezing after baking, be sure to reheat in the oven to maintain the texture of the mushrooms and topping.

Conclusion

Baked Cheesy Mushroom Casserole is a simple yet delicious dish that combines earthy mushrooms, rich cheeses, and creamy sauce into a perfect, crowd-pleasing casserole. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it as a comforting main dish or a flavorful side, and with endless customization options like adding proteins, swapping cheeses, or incorporating more vegetables, you can tailor it to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings. With minimal preparation and a short baking time, it’s the perfect go-to dish for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Share this recipe with friends and family to spread the love for easy, delicious comfort food that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Baked Cheesy Mushroom Casserole

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• Author: Christine

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Description

This Baked Cheesy Mushroom Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together tender button mushrooms, sharp cheddar, nutty Parmesan, and a rich, creamy sauce. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs, this casserole is baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal side dish or main course for any occasion. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms pair beautifully with the savory richness of the cheeses and cream, while the crunchy topping adds a delightful contrast in texture. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting a potluck, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb of button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, toss the sliced mushrooms with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the mushroom mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan over the mushrooms.
5. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the entire dish.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter with breadcrumbs until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
8. Optionally, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve an extra crispy topping.
9. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley and serving.

Notes

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If baking straight from the fridge, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This casserole is vegetarian as-is, but you can also add extra veggies like spinach or broccoli to boost the nutritional content.
• Customization: Feel free to swap out the cheeses or add cooked proteins like chicken or sausage to suit your taste preferences.
• Leftovers: The casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and it can be frozen for longer storage.