Cheese And Mushrooms
A hearty baked bread casserole with mushrooms, sharp Cheddar, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings that love comforting, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions and celery in butter; add mushrooms and cook until tender.
- In a greased 2-quart casserole, layer half of the bread cubes, half of the mushroom mixture, and half of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, mushroom mixture, and cheese.
- Beat eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper together.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and mushroom mixture.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, alongside the sharp Cheddar. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can add spinach or kale for some greens. Ensure your bread is stale for the best texture, and try using a crusty artisan loaf for more depth. You can also experiment with spices like thyme or oregano for extra aroma.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese and Mushrooms casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For brunch, it can complement other breakfast favorites like Anise Kringle Rolls or fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Mushrooms contains roughly 907 calories, with 18g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value), calcium (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1146mg per serving (50% 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 different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute sharp Cheddar with other cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack. Mixing different cheeses can enhance the flavor profile and create a creamier texture. Just ensure to use a total of about 2 cups of cheese for best results.
What can I use instead of stale bread?
If you don’t have stale bread, you can toast fresh bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes to dry them out slightly. Alternatively, using crusty rolls or baguette will also work well, providing a nice texture to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).