Cheesy Mushroom Bake: A Savory Delight for Any Meal
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Refrigeration Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Category: Vegetable
Keywords: Easy Side Dish, Savory Bake, Mushroom Recipe, < 4 Hours
This Cheesy Mushroom Bake is a delectable side dish that pairs wonderfully with nearly any meal, offering a rich, comforting flavor that’s reminiscent of a savory stuffing. Perfect for mushroom enthusiasts, this dish becomes even more flavorful when allowed to rest in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before baking. Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms to suit your taste preferences or add more if you like!
Ingredients:
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Celery: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
- Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
- Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded
- Eggs: 4, beaten
- Milk: 8 ounces
- Dry Mustard: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Black Pepper: 2 teaspoons
- Bread Cubes: 2 cups
- Mushrooms: 2 cups, sliced (your choice of variety)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped celery and onion, cooking until the onions become translucent and the celery softens, about 5 minutes. -
Sauté the Mushrooms:
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook over low heat. Stir occasionally until the mushrooms release their liquid and begin to brown slightly, approximately 10 minutes. Remove from heat. -
Layer the Casserole:
Butter the bottom of a 2-quart casserole dish. Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish. Layer with half of the sautéed mushroom mixture and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining bread cubes, mushroom mixture, and cheese. -
Prepare the Custard Mixture:
In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish. -
Chill and Bake:
Cover the casserole dish and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard mixture. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the custard is firm and the top is golden brown. -
Serve:
Allow the Cheesy Mushroom Bake to stand for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut into portions.
This hearty and flavorful dish will surely become a favorite addition to your meal repertoire, whether served at a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering. Enjoy the delightful combination of cheese, mushrooms, and savory bread, all baked to perfection!
