Barley Pilaf Casserole
A hearty barley pilaf casserole with mushrooms and onions, baked to perfection. Rich, savory flavors make it ideal for family dinners or vegetarian main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a skillet.
- Add chopped onions, sliced mushrooms, and pearl barley; cook on medium heat until highly browned.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Stir in salt and pepper.
- Cover the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions and mushrooms. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute beef bouillon with vegetable broth. Additionally, you can add cooked vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. Using a mix of wild and pearl barley can also enhance texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Barley Pilaf Casserole is delicious on its own but can be complemented with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or beef dishes. It pairs beautifully with Beef 'N Potato Casserole for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barley Pilaf Casserole contains roughly 409 calories, with 12g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (118% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1985mg per serving (86% 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 grains instead of barley?
Yes, you can substitute barley with quinoa or brown rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust the liquid and baking times accordingly to ensure the grains are fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Certainly! You can mix in cooked ground beef, chicken, or even lentils for added protein. If using meat, ensure it is cooked beforehand and stir it into the barley mixture before baking.
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).