Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole is a rich, savory dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of cheese. This comforting casserole is perfect for cozy dinners and is beloved by those who enjoy simple yet indulgent recipes. Whether it’s served as a hearty side dish at family gatherings or a satisfying main course on a chilly evening, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Its popularity stems from the perfect combination of flavors and textures: the mushrooms provide a savory base that absorbs the creamy, cheesy sauce, creating a well-balanced bite. For cheese and mushroom lovers, it’s an irresistible dish that showcases the best of both ingredients. Moreover, its versatility means it can be customized with different types of cheeses, herbs, or additional ingredients to suit personal tastes, making it a go-to recipe for home cooks.

The Perfect Blend: Mushrooms and Cheese

Mushrooms and cheese are a match made in culinary heaven, especially when baked together in a casserole. Mushrooms have a unique, slightly earthy flavor that complements the creamy richness of melted cheese. Their spongy texture allows them to absorb sauces and flavors beautifully, making them an ideal base for casseroles. Whether using white button mushrooms for their mildness, cremini for a slightly deeper flavor, or portobellos for their meaty texture, mushrooms are a versatile and essential part of this dish.

The role of cheese in this casserole is equally important. Cheese brings both creaminess and structure, binding the mushrooms and other ingredients together into a cohesive dish. Cheeses like mozzarella melt smoothly, creating a stretchy, gooey consistency, while cheddar provides a sharp, bold flavor. Parmesan adds a salty, nutty edge, and Gruyère introduces a deeper, more complex taste. The combination of different cheeses can elevate the dish, providing layers of flavor and texture that are both indulgent and satisfying. Choosing the right balance of cheeses ensures the perfect cheesy, golden crust and a rich, creamy interior.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

Mushrooms: The star of the dish, mushrooms come in various types, each bringing something unique to the casserole. White mushrooms are mild and absorb flavors well, making them a neutral base. Cremini, or baby bella mushrooms, have a deeper, earthier flavor, while portobello mushrooms offer a meaty texture that can make the casserole feel heartier. The choice of mushroom depends on the desired flavor and texture, but all are excellent options.

Cheeses: A mix of cheeses is often used to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and meltability. Mozzarella is a favorite for its smooth melting properties, creating that signature stringy, cheesy pull. Cheddar brings a sharper taste, while Parmesan adds depth with its salty, nutty profile. Gruyère, with its nutty sweetness, can be added for a more gourmet touch. Mixing these cheeses ensures a well-rounded flavor and the ideal creamy consistency.
Herbs and Seasonings: Garlic, thyme, and parsley are common seasonings that enhance the mushrooms and cheese. Thyme adds an earthy, woody flavor that complements the mushrooms, while garlic provides a punch of savory aroma. Parsley is often added for a fresh, herbaceous note to brighten the dish.
Optional Ingredients: For extra flavor, add-ins like crispy breadcrumbs, caramelized onions, or crumbled bacon can enhance both the texture and taste of the casserole.

Cream or Sauce Base: The base of the casserole often includes a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, sour cream, or a béchamel, which binds the ingredients and gives the dish a rich, velvety texture.

Preparation and Variations

Step-by-Step Recipe for Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole

Preparation:

Cleaning and Prepping the Mushrooms: Begin by cleaning the mushrooms. Use a damp paper towel or soft brush to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid rinsing them directly under water, as mushrooms can absorb moisture, which may affect the casserole’s texture. Trim the stems if needed and slice the mushrooms evenly.

Grating and Preparing the Cheeses: Select a mix of your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère. Grate the cheeses separately to ensure they melt smoothly in the casserole. For added flavor, set aside a small portion of Parmesan or cheddar to sprinkle on top for a crispy, golden finish.
Prepping the Sauce or Creamy Base: Prepare a sauce by combining heavy cream, sour cream, or a béchamel (butter, flour, and milk) as the base. Season the sauce with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to ensure the ingredients are well incorporated and flavorful.

Assembly:

Layering: In a greased casserole dish, begin by adding a layer of sliced mushrooms. Follow with a layer of grated cheese and a ladle of the prepared sauce. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, ensuring cheese and sauce are evenly distributed.
Optional Toppings: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs, more grated cheese, or even crispy bacon bits on top for a crunchy, flavorful finish.

Baking:

Time and Temperature: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Check for Doneness: The casserole is done when the top is crispy, golden, and bubbling, with the sauce thickened and the mushrooms tender.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve as a comforting side dish alongside roasted meats, with garlic bread, or over fresh greens for a balanced meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Mushroom Casserole

Avoiding Soggy Mushrooms: Mushrooms release water when cooked, which can lead to a soggy casserole. To avoid this, sauté the mushrooms lightly before assembling the casserole. This step helps them release some moisture before baking.
Choosing the Right Cheese: Select cheeses that melt well but also provide flavor. Mozzarella is ideal for a stretchy texture, while cheddar adds sharpness, and Gruyère provides a nutty complexity. A good blend of cheeses ensures a balance of taste and texture.

Seasoning: It’s essential to season each layer—mushrooms, cheese, and sauce. This ensures that the flavors are distributed evenly throughout the casserole, creating a well-seasoned dish.
Achieving a Crispy Top: For a perfectly crisp top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Adding a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan or extra cheddar can further enhance the crunchy texture.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian-Friendly Options:
- Add layers of fresh spinach, zucchini, or sautéed onions for extra flavor and texture. These vegetables blend well with the creaminess of the cheese and add a healthy twist to the casserole.
Non-Vegetarian Options:
- Incorporate diced cooked chicken, ham, or bacon to turn the casserole into a more substantial main dish. These meats provide additional flavor and protein, making the dish more filling.

Low-Carb or Keto Variations:
- Replace flour-based sauces with heavy cream or a cream cheese-based sauce to keep the dish low in carbohydrates. Opt for cheeses like full-fat cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda, which are keto-friendly.
Gluten-Free Version:
- For a gluten-free casserole, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether. Use gluten-free flour for thickening the sauce, or rely on cream-based sauces instead.
Dairy-Free Option:
- For those avoiding dairy, plant-based cheeses like almond-based or cashew-based mozzarella and cheddar alternatives work well. Use a coconut or cashew cream in place of dairy cream to maintain the casserole’s creamy texture without compromising on taste.

What to Serve with Cheesy Mushroom Casserole

Side Dishes: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a balanced and complete meal. The lightness of a salad or roasted vegetables complements the rich, creamy casserole well.
Bread Pairings: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to mop up the cheesy sauce. The crunch of the bread contrasts with the softness of the casserole, making for a satisfying combination.
Beverage Pairings: Wine lovers may enjoy a glass of dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, to cut through the richness of the cheese. Alternatively, a light beer or a hot cup of herbal tea can balance the dish’s bold flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before freezing.
Reheating Tips: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. To avoid sogginess, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave, as this helps maintain the casserole’s crispy texture.
Shelf Life: In the fridge, the casserole remains fresh for 3-4 days, while frozen portions can last up to 2 months. Always thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different types of mushrooms for the casserole?
- Yes, you can experiment with various mushrooms. White button mushrooms are mild, cremini (baby bella) mushrooms offer a deeper flavor, and portobello mushrooms provide a meatier texture. Mixing different types can add complexity to the dish.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
- To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether. For the sauce, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent, or rely on a cream-based sauce without any flour.
What cheese works best for this casserole?
- The best cheeses for this casserole include mozzarella for a stretchy melt, cheddar for sharpness, and Parmesan or Gruyère for added flavor depth. Combining these cheeses offers the ideal balance of creaminess, flavor, and texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it fresh, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?
- Sauté the mushrooms beforehand to reduce their water content. This step ensures they don’t release too much moisture during baking, which can make the casserole soggy.
Can I make this dish without cream or dairy?
- Yes, for a dairy-free version, substitute the cheese with plant-based alternatives, and use a non-dairy cream or cashew-based cream for the sauce. These options still provide a creamy texture without dairy.

Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole

Author: Munil

Print Recipe

Description

This Baked Cheesy Mushrooms Casserole is a rich, creamy dish that combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms with a blend of melted cheeses for the ultimate comfort food. Ideal for mushroom and cheese lovers alike, this casserole is perfect for serving as a side dish or even as a hearty main course when paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad. With layers of mushrooms, a velvety cheese sauce, and a crispy golden top, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a bowl, toss the sliced mushrooms with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Spread the mushroom mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan over the mushrooms.
Pour the heavy cream evenly over the entire dish.
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter with breadcrumbs until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
Optionally, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve an extra crispy topping.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley and serving.

Notes

Choosing the Right Mushrooms:
- For best results, use a mix of mushrooms like cremini, white button, or portobello. Each type brings a different texture and flavor depth to the casserole. Cremini and portobello add a meaty richness, while white button mushrooms offer a mild flavor that blends well with the cheese.
Cheese Selection:
- A combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan ensures the best balance of creaminess, flavor, and texture. Mozzarella provides a gooey melt, cheddar adds sharpness, and Parmesan gives the dish a salty, nutty finish.
Prepping the Mushrooms:
- Avoid rinsing mushrooms under water as they can absorb excess moisture, making the casserole soggy. Instead, wipe them clean with a damp paper towel. Sauté the mushrooms briefly to reduce moisture before baking.

Creating the Creamy Sauce:
- The sauce can be made with heavy cream, sour cream, or a béchamel base (butter, flour, and milk). Be sure to season it well with garlic, thyme, and other herbs to enhance the casserole’s flavor.
Crispy Topping:
- For a golden, crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan on top before baking. Broiling the casserole for the last few minutes of cooking can add an extra crispness to the top.
Customizations:
- You can easily customize this casserole by adding cooked chicken, bacon, or vegetables like spinach or zucchini. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the casserole as a side dish alongside roasted meats, or as a main course with garlic bread and a fresh green salad. It pairs wonderfully with white wine or a light beer.
Storage and Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain the casserole’s texture and avoid a soggy result.