Mushroom Polenta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — warm, creamy, and packed with flavor. This hearty vegetarian recipe layers earthy mushrooms with rich, cheesy polenta to create a dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of savory mushrooms and velvety texture, making it a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want something hearty and wholesome, this casserole is the answer. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough to serve at family gatherings or potlucks. And the best part? Even meat-lovers won’t miss the meat in this filling, flavorful dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✨ Wholesome & Nutritious – Packed with vegetables, whole grains, and protein-rich cheese.
✨ Creamy Comfort – Silky polenta with sautéed mushrooms makes every bite luxurious.
✨ Customizable – Swap in seasonal veggies or experiment with different mushrooms.
✨ Easy & Approachable – Simple steps, perfect for beginner or seasoned cooks.
✨ Perfect for Sharing – Feeds a crowd and makes excellent leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup polenta
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or button), sliced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Polenta – In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Whisk in polenta, reduce heat, and cook until thickened (5–7 minutes).
- Sauté Vegetables – In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Cook onion until soft, then add garlic for 1 minute.
- Cook Mushrooms – Add mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté until softened and golden, 8–10 minutes.
- Combine – Stir the cooked polenta into the mushroom mixture. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add Cheese – Stir in half the mozzarella and Parmesan until melted.
- Assemble – Spread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake – Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Finish – Cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Add a drizzle of truffle oil for extra depth.
- Serve with a light white wine or earthy red for a perfect pairing.
Tips & Variations
- Make Ahead – Assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake before serving.
- Extra Creamy – Add a splash of cream when mixing in the cheese.
- Add Spinach – Stir in fresh spinach before baking for added nutrition.
- Vegan Option – Swap the cheese for your favorite plant-based alternatives.
- Spicy Kick – Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for heat.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
- Freeze – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat – Warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant polenta? Yes, just adjust the cooking time according to the package.
What mushrooms work best? Cremini, shiitake, or button are great choices, but feel free to mix varieties.
Can I make it vegan? Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese and broth.
How do I make it creamier? Add more broth or a splash of cream when combining with cheese.
Final Thoughts
Mushroom Polenta Casserole is more than just a meal — it’s comfort in every bite. Creamy, cheesy, and filled with earthy mushroom flavor, this dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s easy, versatile, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.