Savory Mushroom Beef Casserole

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Savory Mushroom Beef Casserole – Hearty, Creamy, and Full of Comfort

Savory Mushroom Beef Casserole is the kind of satisfying, home-cooked dish that brings the family together. With tender ground beef, golden sautéed mushrooms, herbs, creamy sour cream, melted cheese, and a rich depth of flavor, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food for weeknights, holidays, or anytime you’re craving something warm, filling, and delicious.

This one-dish wonder is easy to make, freezer-friendly, and customizable, making it a staple for both meal prep and family dinners.

🛒 Ingredients for Savory Mushroom Beef Casserole

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful and comforting dish:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or mixed wild mushrooms)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for a pop of sweetness and color)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

✅ Optional Additions:

  • ½ cup cooked rice or egg noodles for a more filling casserole
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for depth
  • ½ teaspoon red chili flakes for heat
  • Grated Gruyère or cheddar instead of mozzarella for bolder flavor

🍳 How to Make Mushroom Beef Casserole – Step-by-Step

1. Brown the Beef

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove beef from the skillet and set aside.

🔥 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the beef brown for maximum flavor instead of steaming.

2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics

  • In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  • Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
  • Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add sliced mushrooms, season with a little salt, and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden brown—about 8–10 minutes.

3. Build the Casserole Base

  • Return the browned beef to the skillet.
  • Add thyme, rosemary, paprika, and stir well.
  • Pour in beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Stir in frozen peas, if using.
  • Remove from heat and fold in the sour cream until the mixture is creamy and well combined.

4. Assemble and Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Transfer the beef and mushroom mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake Until Bubbly

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

🧀 Optional: Broil the top for an extra 2–3 minutes for a perfectly golden cheese crust.

6. Rest and Serve

  • Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle and makes it easier to portion.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve your Mushroom Beef Casserole with:

  • Crusty bread or garlic toast
  • Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
  • Steamed rice or egg noodles
  • A crisp green salad to balance the richness

This dish also works beautifully on its own as a low-carb and high-protein one-pan meal.

💡 Tips for the Best Mushroom Beef Casserole

  • Use high-quality ground beef with moderate fat for maximum flavor and juiciness.
  • Brown mushrooms deeply to unlock their rich umami flavor.
  • Don’t skip the herbs – rosemary and thyme add aromatic depth that ties everything together.
  • Customize the cheese to your taste: mozzarella gives stretch, cheddar gives sharpness, and Gruyère adds nutty complexity.
  • Let it rest before serving so the creamy sauce sets slightly for better texture.

📌 Recipe Variations

Make It Low-Carb/Keto

  • Skip the peas and use cauliflower rice instead of adding pasta or grains.

Add Crunchy Topping

  • Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top before baking for a crispy finish.

Turn It Into a One-Dish Meal

  • Stir in cooked pasta (like rotini or penne) or cooked rice for a full dinner in one dish.

Mushroom Lover’s Version

  • Add a mix of shiitake, portobello, and oyster mushrooms for complex umami notes.

🥶 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

To Refrigerate:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 325°F or microwave individual portions until warmed through.

To Freeze:

  • Assemble the casserole and freeze before baking for best results.
  • Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap.
  • When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

✅ Great for meal prep or making ahead for busy weeks.

📊 Nutrition (Approximate per serving, 6 servings)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 27g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 520mg

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on added vegetables, cheese, or optional ingredients.

✨ Why You’ll Love This Savory Mushroom Beef Casserole

  • Comforting and satisfying – like a warm hug in a dish
  • Flavor-rich – herbs, mushrooms, and creamy beef bring out deep, umami notes
  • Simple ingredients – easy to find and affordable
  • Quick and easy – from stovetop to oven in under an hour
  • Freezer-friendly – ideal for prepping ahead or doubling for later

Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping for the week, or simply craving a hearty and flavorful dinner, this Mushroom Beef Casserole delivers comfort, taste, and nourishment in every creamy, cheesy bite.

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