Layered Mushroom Casserole

Mushroom Casserole with Cottage Cheese and Cheddar Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 9

Introduction

Layered Mushroom Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. This casserole is packed with flavorful mushrooms, creamy cottage cheese, and aromatic herbs, all layered between slices of bread and baked to perfection.

History

The origins of Layered Mushroom Casserole are not well-documented, but casseroles have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. Casseroles are known for their versatility and ability to feed a crowd, making them a staple in many households.

Ingredients

2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 cup fat-free cottage cheese
0.25 cup chopped green onion
0.5 tsp dried rosemary
1 clove finely chopped garlic
8 slices whole grain bread
1.5 cups skim milk
1 cup fat-free cholesterol-free egg substitute
0.5 cup shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese

How to prepare

Spray a square pan, 9x9x2 inches, with nonstick cooking spray.
In a mixing bowl, combine mushrooms, cottage cheese, green onions, rosemary, and garlic. Mix well.
Place 4 slices of bread in the bottom of the pan.
Cover the bread with the mushroom mixture and top with the remaining slices of bread.
In a separate bowl, beat milk and egg substitute together. Pour the mixture over the casserole and sprinkle with cheese.
Bake uncovered at 350°F (177°C) for 45 to 50 minutes or until the mixture is set and the top is browned.
Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes, then cut it into 9 pieces.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
Use different types of mushrooms for a variety of flavors.
Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the dish to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to slice the mushrooms evenly to ensure even cooking.

- You can use any type of bread for this recipe, but a hearty whole grain bread works best.

- Feel free to customize the herbs and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, you can use full-fat cottage cheese and milk instead of skim.

Serving Suggestions

Layered Mushroom Casserole can be served as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ricotta cheese or cream cheese instead of cottage cheese.

- Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) can be used in place of skim milk.

- Use fresh garlic instead of dried garlic for a stronger flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Layered Mushroom Casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Layered Mushroom Casserole contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Layered Mushroom Casserole contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Layered Mushroom Casserole contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Layered Mushroom Casserole contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Layered Mushroom Casserole is a good source of vitamin D, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cottage cheese, milk, cheese) and wheat (bread), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Layered Mushroom Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Layered Mushroom Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. Packed with mushrooms, cheese, and herbs, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a cold winter day, and I was at a friend's house for a potluck dinner. As I walked into the kitchen, the warm, savory aroma of mushrooms and cheese filled the room, making my stomach growl with anticipation.

I asked my friend for the recipe, and she smiled as she handed me a tattered old index card. "This is my grandma's famous Layered Mushroom Casserole recipe," she said. "She used to make it for us every Christmas. It's a family favorite."

I knew I had to try it for myself. So, armed with the recipe card and a bag full of fresh mushrooms, I headed home to give it a go. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories of my own grandmother flooded back to me.

My grandmother was an incredible cook. She could whip up a feast out of the most humble ingredients, and her meals always brought the family together around the dinner table. I remembered her teaching me how to make her famous meatballs and sauce, and how she would laugh as I struggled to roll the perfect meatball.

I missed her dearly, and I knew that cooking this Layered Mushroom Casserole would bring back memories of her. So, I got to work, slicing the mushrooms and sautéing them in a fragrant blend of garlic, onions, and herbs. The smell that filled my kitchen was heavenly, just like my grandmother's cooking.

As I layered the mushrooms with creamy cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs, I felt a sense of satisfaction wash over me. This was more than just a casserole – it was a connection to my past, a way to keep my grandmother's memory alive through the food she loved to make.

When the casserole was finally done baking, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was pure bliss – the earthy mushrooms, gooey cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs all melded together in a symphony of flavors. It was like a warm hug from my grandmother, wrapping me in memories of days gone by.

I brought the casserole to the next potluck dinner, just like my friend had done. As my friends oohed and aahed over the dish, I couldn't help but smile. This recipe had brought me closer to my grandmother, allowing me to share her love of cooking with others.

From that day on, Layered Mushroom Casserole became a staple in my recipe collection. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Each time I cooked it, I felt my grandmother's presence in the kitchen, guiding my hands and infusing the dish with love.

And so, this recipe has become more than just a way to satisfy my cravings for mushrooms and cheese. It's a way to honor my grandmother, to keep her memory alive through the food we both loved to make. And for that, I am forever grateful.