Golden, bubbly, and irresistibly cheesy, Mushroom Mozzarella Bake is the ultimate comfort food for cheese lovers and mushroom enthusiasts alike. With layers of tender mushrooms, creamy béchamel sauce, and perfectly melted mozzarella, every bite delivers a rich and satisfying experience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this easy recipe is sure to impress.
The combination of earthy mushrooms, gooey mozzarella, and a hint of garlic creates an explosion of flavors that feels both indulgent and comforting. Serve it as a main course with a fresh green salad or as a side dish to complement a hearty protein. No matter how you enjoy it, this bake is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients for Mushroom Mozzarella Bake
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine with the mushrooms. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, spread the creamy mushroom mixture evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, followed by the shredded mozzarella. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, if desired.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this cheesy, creamy Mushroom Mozzarella Bake on its own or paired with your favorite side!
Storage Instructions
To store leftovers, allow the Mushroom Mozzarella Bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
For longer storage, freeze the bake in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~14g
- Carbohydrates: ~5g
- Fats: ~28g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~400mg
(Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella is ideal for its meltability, you can mix in provolone, gouda, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
2. What mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Cremini, button, or portobello mushrooms work great. You can also mix different types for a richer, earthy taste.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
4. Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this is a completely vegetarian dish. However, check your Parmesan cheese as some varieties may contain animal rennet.
5. How can I make this dish lower in calories?
Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese to lighten the dish while keeping it creamy.
6. Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Cooked chicken, bacon, or even tofu can be mixed in before baking for extra protein.
7. What side dishes pair well with Mushroom Mozzarella Bake?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent side choices to balance the richness.
8. Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Yes! Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and opt for dairy-free mozzarella to make it vegan-friendly.
