This Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Casserole is a rich, comforting dish that highlights the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the creamy goodness of cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a crowd-pleasing side dish!
Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Casserole
Rated 5.0 stars by 2 users
Category
Main Course / Side Dish
Servings
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Indulge in this Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Casserole, a sophisticated yet comforting dish that brings together the rich, earthy flavors of mixed mushrooms with the creamy decadence of Gruyère cheese.
Sautéed onions and garlic infuse the base with aromatic goodness, while Arborio rice absorbs all the flavors as it cooks to perfection. Topped with a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust and a sprinkle of fresh thyme, this casserole is a delightful balance of textures.
Perfect as a main course or a sumptuous side, this dish is sure to impress at your next gathering or family dinner. Serve it warm and watch everyone dig in for seconds!
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 1 lb mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), cleaned and sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- For the Breadcrumb Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Directions
- 1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and any liquid has evaporated. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
3. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it in the mushroom mixture. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. Continue until the rice is al dente (about 15-20 minutes).
4. Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, and chopped thyme. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mushroom mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the breadcrumb mixture and additional Gruyère cheese for an extra cheesy crust.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This casserole pairs beautifully with a green salad or as a side to roasted meats.
Recipe Note
Mushroom Varieties: Feel free to mix and match different types of mushrooms to enhance flavor and texture. Shiitake, portobello, and chanterelles are great options to consider.
Rice Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute Arborio rice with cooked quinoa or a gluten-free grain.
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can be added for extra flavor. You can also use dried herbs if fresh isn’t available; just adjust the amounts accordingly.
Cheese Choices: Gruyère adds a wonderful nuttiness, but you can substitute it with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for different flavor profiles.
Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Enjoy creating this delicious dish!