Barley And Mushroom Casserole
A hearty casserole combining earthy mushrooms and nutty barley, infused with savory butter and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or vegetarian gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute sliced mushrooms in 3 tablespoons of butter until browned.
- Remove mushrooms from the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and marjoram.
- In the remaining butter, brown the chopped onion and barley until lightly toasted.
- Add the cooked mushrooms to the barley and onion mixture.
- Transfer everything into a buttered casserole dish.
- Pour over 4 cups of chicken broth, cover, and bake at 300°F for 2 hours.
- Add more chicken broth during baking as needed to keep moist.
- Adjust seasoning before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding garlic or shallots when sautéing the mushrooms. You can substitute pearl barley for regular barley if desired, although cooking times may vary. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, ensuring the casserole remains rich and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
This barley and mushroom casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken recipes like Easy Chicken Pasties for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving can elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barley And Mushroom Casserole contains roughly 135 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 917mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of mushrooms in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for standard mushrooms, feel free to experiment with shiitake, cremini, or even portobello for varied flavors and textures. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if using larger mushrooms.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
What can I serve with the casserole?
This casserole is versatile and can be complemented with many sides. Consider pairing it with a fresh arugula salad or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts. It also works well with hearty proteins if you're looking for a more filling meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).