This Cheesy Potato and Mushroom Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish made with fresh potatoes, mushrooms, onions, and a flavorful combination of cheese and seasonings. The addition of mayonnaise and mustard adds a creamy richness, while the fresh herbs and green onions bring a burst of freshness. Perfect for a comforting family meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite mains.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 45 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Yield: 4 servings
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Cuisine: Comfort Food
Full List of Ingredients
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3 fresh potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 onion, chopped
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or more to taste)
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4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
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1 egg, beaten
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1.7 oz (50 g) butter, melted
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3.5 oz (100 g) cheese, grated (cheddar or your choice)
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100 g mushrooms, sliced
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Fresh green onions, chopped (for garnish)
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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1 tablespoon mustard (for added flavor)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel and dice the 3 fresh potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes. Place the diced potatoes into a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions:
In a pan, melt 50g of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Season with Italian seasoning and salt to taste.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, sautéed mushroom mixture, and 1 tablespoon mustard. Add 2 tablespoons mayonnaise and mix well. Stir in the beaten egg and 100g of grated cheese, then season with black pepper and more Italian seasoning to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the potato and mushroom mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheese and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 350 kcal
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Fat: 22g
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Saturated Fat: 12g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 3g
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Protein: 10g
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Sodium: 380mg
Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This Cheesy Potato and Mushroom Casserole is inspired by classic comfort food dishes that use potatoes, cheese, and vegetables in hearty casseroles. Casseroles are widely enjoyed for their convenience and ability to feed a large group with minimal effort. The addition of mushrooms, garlic, and fresh herbs gives it a deeper flavor and an irresistible creamy texture.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Comforting and Flavorful: The creamy, cheesy potato mixture is rich and satisfying, making this dish the ultimate comfort food.
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Simple Ingredients: Using common ingredients like potatoes, onions, and cheese, this recipe is easy to make with what you likely already have on hand.
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Customizable: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins like spinach, chicken, or bacon to make the casserole your own.
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Perfect for Meal Prep: This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick, delicious meal.
Health Benefits
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Potatoes: Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, potatoes help maintain heart health and improve digestion.
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Mushrooms: A great source of antioxidants and vitamins, mushrooms promote immunity and support bone health.
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Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, garlic helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with Salad: Pair the casserole with a fresh green salad for added texture and nutrition.
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As a Main Dish: Serve with a side of grilled meat or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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For Brunch: Serve this casserole at brunch with eggs and fresh fruit on the side.
Cooking Tips
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Use Fresh Cheese: For the best results, use freshly grated cheese for a smoother and creamier texture.
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Make Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just bake it before serving.
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Add Extra Flavor: Experiment with adding different seasonings or herbs, like thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to enhance the flavor.
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
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Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicier twist.
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Bacon or Sausage: For a meatier casserole, add crumbled bacon or cooked sausage to the mix.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato and Mushroom Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you serve it as a side or as the main course, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Customize it to your liking with different vegetables and herbs, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use other types of cheese for this casserole?
Yes, you can use cheddar, Gouda, or any cheese you prefer.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Let it thaw overnight and bake as directed.
4. How can I make this casserole vegan?
Use dairy-free cheese and vegan mayonnaise to make it vegan-friendly.
5. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes, you can add crumbled sausage, bacon, or ground beef for a heartier version.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
8. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be a great alternative for a slightly sweeter flavor.
9. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted.
10. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.